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UCLA Cruises to Elite Eight, Aims for Championship
29 Mar
Summary
- UCLA secured an Elite Eight spot for the second consecutive year.
- Kiki Rice scored 21 points, and Lauren Betts added 16 points and five blocks.
- The Bruins are focused on winning the national championship, not just advancing.
The UCLA Bruins have secured their spot in the Elite Eight for the second year in a row, defeating Minnesota 80-56 in the NCAA Tournament regional semifinal. Kiki Rice led the Bruins with 21 points, complemented by Lauren Betts' 16 points and five blocks. The top-seeded Bruins controlled the game, leading for over 38 minutes and never letting the Gophers get within single digits in the second half.
Despite a less-than-perfect offensive performance, UCLA's defensive intensity was key, holding Minnesota to 37.9% shooting and forcing 15 turnovers. Coach Cori Close emphasized the team's focus on going "1-0" each game, highlighting their resilience. The Bruins are determined to win the national championship, having learned from their Final Four exit last season.
Minnesota's journey in the Sweet Sixteen concluded, marking their first appearance since 2025. Coach Dawn Plitzuweit expressed pride in her team's return to national relevance. The Gophers' senior Amaya Battle hoped this appearance would become the program's new standard.
