UCLA dominates rival USC to secure double bye in Big Ten tournament

March 8, 2026 - 07:01

A dominant performance from guard Donovan Dent propelled the UCLA Bruins to a decisive 89-68 road victory over their crosstown rival, the USC Trojans, on Saturday night at the Galen Center. The win solidifies a top-four finish in the conference, granting the Bruins a valuable double bye in the upcoming Big Ten tournament.

Dent was the catalyst for UCLA, orchestrating the offense with a game-high 25 points and seven assists. His leadership on the floor ensured the Bruins maintained control throughout the contest, building a steady lead that USC could not overcome. The Bruins' defensive intensity stifled the Trojans' scoring efforts, allowing UCLA to pull away convincingly in the second half.

This victory carries significant weight for UCLA's postseason positioning. By securing the double bye, the team will automatically advance to the quarterfinal round of the conference tournament, providing crucial extra rest and avoiding the grind of the early rounds. The win also serves as a powerful momentum builder as the Bruins look to peak at the right time, entering the final stretch of the season with confidence and a key strategic advantage. The emphatic nature of the rivalry win underscores UCLA's potential as a serious contender in both the conference and national landscape.