Categories College

The UCLA Bruins begin their Journey to cut down the nets

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The road to cutting down the nets officially begins Saturday for the UCLA Bruins women’s basketball, and all eyes are on a team that has been nothing short of dominant.

Riding a 25-game winning streak, UCLA enters the NCAA Tournament with confidence, momentum, and championship expectations. Their first test comes against California Baptist Lancers women’s basketball—a matchup that, on paper, favors the Bruins, but in March, nothing is ever guaranteed.

Built for March

This UCLA team isn’t just winning—they’re imposing their will.

The Bruins have established themselves as one of the most complete teams in the country:

• Elite size and interior presence

• Physical defense that travels

• Guard play capable of controlling tempo

• Experience in big moments

Everything about this group screams Final Four contender—and possibly more.

The Stars: Betts & Rice

It starts with two seniors who understand what’s at stake.

Lauren Betts

A dominant force in the paint, Betts anchors UCLA on both ends. Her rim protection, rebounding, and ability to control the interior make her one of the most impactful players in the country.

Kiki Rice

The engine. Rice brings leadership, poise, and playmaking. In March, guard play wins—and UCLA has one of the best leaders in the nation running the show.

This is their final run.

No more waiting. No more building. It’s about finishing.

The Matchup: UCLA vs California Baptist

California Baptist enters as the underdog, but that comes with freedom. Teams like this are dangerous:

• Nothing to lose

• Everything to prove

• Willing to play fast and aggressive

For UCLA, the key is simple:

• Start fast

• Control the glass

• Avoid complacency

Survive and advance—that’s the only thing that matters this time of year.

What’s at Stake

For UCLA, this isn’t just another tournament appearance.

This is about:

• Cementing a historic season

• Delivering a national championship

• Leaving a legacy

A 25-game winning streak means nothing if it ends short of the ultimate goal.

This is a championship-caliber team.

They have:

• The star power

• The experience

• The depth

• The momentum

Now it’s about execution.

I’ll be following every step of this journey because this UCLA team feels different. Focused. Mature. Ready.

And if they play to their standard, don’t be surprised if this run ends with UCLA cutting down the nets.