No. 3 UCLA women’s basketball dominates Southern to stay unbeaten

UCLA Women’s Basketball Dominates Southern: Angela Dugalić’s Breakout Performance and Upcoming Challenges

In a decisive victory, the UCLA women’s basketball team showcased their prowess against Southern, winning 88-37. This impressive win highlights not just the team’s capabilities but also the remarkable performance of forward Angela Dugalić, who has become a key player for the Bruins under the guidance of Coach Cori Close. During the post-game discussions, Close emphasized the potential she sees in Dugalić, urging her to harness her full skill set, especially in the low post. This article explores Dugalić’s journey, team dynamics, and the challenges that lie ahead for the Bruins.

Hunting for Potential: Coach Close’s Vision for Dugalić

Coach Cori Close made a heartfelt pitch to Dugalić, urging her to tap into the extensive abilities she has worked tirelessly to develop. Close told reporters that Dugalić was not fully utilizing her skills and needed to move beyond just playing on the perimeter. This sentiment resonates within the team, as Close is focused on maximizing each player’s potential. “I want her to be all she can be,” Close stated, emphasizing the importance of Dugalić embracing her offensive capabilities to contribute more significantly in the paint.

The Dominance Against Southern: Dugalić Shines

The Sunday matchup against Southern was a testament to the Bruins’ formidable skills. With a final score of 88-37, the Bruins demonstrated their offensive strength and defensive tenacity. Dugalić led the team with 20 points, which included three three-pointers and five rebounds. Her performance reflects the hard work she has put into enhancing her low-post game during the offseason, showcasing her adaptability and determination to improve. UCLA dominated in several key stats: shooting 51% from the floor, out-rebounding Southern by 30, and converting 28 points off turnovers, further emphasizing their control over the game.

Early Contributions and Teamwork

Dugalić made crucial early contributions that set the tone for the match. Her ability to score first with a mid-range jumper and follow it up with a fastbreak layup showcased her readiness to lead from the start. Not only did she finish with 20 points, but freshman forward Lena Bilić also made headlines, adding 14 points to the scoreboard. This balanced scoring reflects the Bruins’ teamwork, with 24 assists, underscoring their willingness to collaborate on offense. Senior guard Gabriela Jaquez also celebrated a milestone, achieving her 1,000th career point, adding to the team’s momentum.

Addressing Gaps: Close’s Perspective

Despite the overwhelming win, Close maintained a focus on the areas needing improvement. She emphasized that while the Bruins had the upper hand, they could still perform better. “I’m more interested in the process,” she explained, suggesting there were missed opportunities on defense that were not fully capitalized. This perspective demonstrates Close’s commitment to constant development, reminding her players that even in victory, there are lessons to be learned.

Upcoming Challenges: Crucial Matchups Ahead

Looking forward, the Bruins have formidable challenges on the horizon. They are set to face No. 4 Texas and potentially No. 2 South Carolina or Duke during the Players Era Women’s Championship in Las Vegas. These matchups will be crucial for assessing UCLA’s capabilities against some of the nation’s best teams. Additionally, the Bruins are scheduled to host No. 15 Tennessee on November 30, making it essential that they maintain this momentum while addressing the gaps identified by Close in their recent game.

Conclusion: A Promising Future for the Bruins

As UCLA prepares for these critical matchups, the spotlight remains on players like Angela Dugalić, whose development is vital for their success. Coach Cori Close’s strategic mentorship and focus on maximizing potential are fundamental in shaping the team’s future. With a solid start to the season and a commitment to improvement, UCLA women’s basketball is set to rise in the national rankings, aiming for significant achievements and a deep run into the season. The upcoming games promise both challenges and opportunities for the talented Bruins squad.