UCLA opened Pac-12 play with a win against crosstown rival USC Tuesday night at USC’s Galen Center, ending a two-game skid.
Led by freshman guard Recee’ Caldwell, UCLA (5-7, Pac-12 1-0) defeated USC (8-4, Pac-12 0-1) 59-52. The Bruins thrived off of their bench players who outscored the starters. Caldwell, coming off the bench, led the team with 17 points – a career high. Freshman Lajahna Drummer added 11 rebounds and 8 points off the bench as well.
The offense took better care of the ball as it turned the ball over 13 times compared to a season average of 19.3 turnovers per game.
While the Bruins only shot 34 percent from the field, they shot 79 percent from the line. Freshman guard Jordin Canada scored 12 points on 2 for 12 shooting, but made all 8 free throw attempts. Tuesday’s free throw performance is a huge step up from Sunday’s game vs. Notre Dame when they only made 52 percent of free throws.
UCLA was outrebounded 42-46 but the Trojans shot only 3-22 from the arc and 46 percent from the line.
The Bruins’ next game is against No. 13 Oregon State on Saturday, Jan. 3 at Pauley Pavilion.
Compiled by Conor Cusack, Bruin Sports contributor.