UCLA Dominates Cal Poly,108-87,Behind Skyy Clark’s 30-Point Performance
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UCLA men’s basketball showcased an explosive offensive performance,defeating Cal Poly 108-87 in a non-conference matchup at Pauley Pavilion on Friday evening. A remarkable six Bruins players scored in double figures, led by Skyy clark’s season-high 30 points, marking the team’s first 100+ point game since November 22, 2023. The offensive explosion mirrored the program’s highest scoring half since a 137-100 victory over George Mason on December 22, 1994.
Clark Leads Balanced Attack
Skyy Clark spearheaded the offensive charge with 30 points, achieved on 10-for-19 shooting, including six three-pointers. this performance marks the first time a UCLA player has reached 30 or more points in a game since Dylan andrews scored 31 points in the Pac-12 Tournament on March 13, 2024, against Oregon State.
Beyond Clark, the Bruins benefited from a balanced scoring attack. Tyler Bilodeau contributed 24 points, while Donovan Dent added 16, Jamar Brown chipped in with 14, Trent perry scored 12, and eric Dailey Jr. rounded out the double-digit scorers with 10 points. This marked the first time UCLA had six players in double figures as a November 11, 2022, win over Norfolk State.
Defensive Adjustments Key to Turnaround
“Obviously, we have a scouting report and we watch film, and we talk about it,” said the UCLA head coach.”I told them that they’re going to shoot more threes tonight then they usually shoot, as that’s their best chance to win.Our guys rallied up and give them credit. They tightened up the defence in the second half, and we forced 24 turnovers and built up a 27-point lead.”
the bruins’ defensive adjustments proved crucial, forcing 24 turnovers and capitalizing on those opportunities to build a commanding lead. Clark’s sixth three-pointer extended UCLA’s largest lead of the night to 99-77 with 4:25 remaining.
Fast Start to the Second Half
UCLA ignited the second half with a decisive 17-2 run in the opening five minutes, seizing a 60-47 lead. The Bruins connected on eight of their first ten shots, with Clark contributing seven points, including his fourth three-pointer.
Cal Poly attempted to close the gap, reducing the deficit to six points (74-68) with 9:52 left, fueled by 11 made three-pointers. Though,a quick response from Jamar Brown,with his second three-pointer,pushed the UCLA lead back to nine. A steal by Donovan Dent and a subsequent finish by Brown extended the advantage to 85-70 with 6:40 remaining.
First-Half Battle
The first half was a closely contested affair, with the lead changing hands five times and the score being tied on six occasions. Cal Poly established a 45-43 halftime lead, shooting 56% from the field and 53% from three-point range (9-for-17). Donovan Dent helped tie the contest at 43-43 in the final minute of the half with a clutch finish and free throw. Earlier in the half, Skyy Clark and Eric dailey jr. combined to give UCLA a brief lead before Cal Poly regained control with consecutive three-pointers. A 9-0 run earlier in the half, fueled by Jamar Brown and donovan Dent, had given the Bruins a 22-17 advantage. Skyy Clark began the game strong, hitting two of his first three three-point attempts to give UCLA an early 9-5 lead.
Looking Ahead
UCLA will return to action on Tuesday, December 23, hosting UC Riverside at 1:00 p.m. (PT). The game will be broadcast live on Big Ten Network.
