The top-seeded UCLA Bruins women’s basketball saw their 27-game winning streak pushed to the brink early, but championship composure carried them through as they pulled away from the Minnesota Golden Gophers women’s basketball for an 80–56 win in the NCAA Women’s West Regional.
Minnesota came in with confidence and toughness, keeping the game tight throughout the first half. The Golden Gophers challenged UCLA on both ends, trailing by just five at halftime, 34–29. Their physical defense and disciplined pace disrupted the Bruins’ rhythm, putting real pressure on the nation’s hottest team.
But elite teams respond—and UCLA did just that. Led by standout guard Kiki Rice and dominant post presence Lauren Betts, the Bruins took control in the second half. Rice delivered a game-high 21 points, shooting an efficient 7-of-12 from the field. More importantly, she hit timely shots that broke Minnesota’s momentum and stretched the lead.
Betts controlled the paint on both ends, finishing with 16 points on 7-of-9 shooting while altering countless shots defensively. Her rim protection forced Minnesota into difficult looks all game long, holding the Gophers to just 38% shooting from the floor.
UCLA’s offense found another gear after halftime, shooting an impressive 52% overall (32-of-61). What was once a competitive battle turned into a statement performance, as the Bruins extended their lead to 65–47 midway through the fourth quarter. From there, it was all UCLA.
Minnesota, who finishes a strong season at 24–9, simply couldn’t keep up with the Bruins’ efficiency and depth down the stretch. Despite their gritty first-half effort, the Gophers ran into a team that knows how to close.
With the win, UCLA advances to the Elite Eight, where they will face the Duke Blue Devils women’s basketball on Sunday afternoon. Riding a now 28-game winning streak, the Bruins look every bit like a team on a mission—with leaders stepping up and momentum building at the perfect time.
If this second-half performance is any indication, UCLA isn’t just surviving—they’re peaking.
