Newd now: The UCLA Bruins are set to host the Penn State Nittany Lions on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at…

Newd now: The UCLA Bruins are set to host the Penn State Nittany Lions on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at…

The UCLA Bruins are set to host the Penn State Nittany Lions on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two programs since their encounter in the 1991 NCAA Tournament, where Penn State secured a 74-69 victory over UCLA.

UCLA enters the game with a 17-6 record, including an 8-4 mark in their inaugural Big Ten season. The Bruins are riding a six-game winning streak, with notable victories over ranked opponents such as No. 18 Wisconsin, No. 16 Oregon, and No. 9 Michigan State. In their most recent game, UCLA edged out Michigan State 63-61, with Eric Dailey Jr. hitting a game-winning shot in the final seconds.

Offensively, UCLA averages 75.4 points per game, ranking 155th nationally. Defensively, they are more formidable, allowing just 64.3 points per game, placing them 20th in the nation. Tyler Bilodeau leads the team with 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, while Eric Dailey Jr. contributes 12.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per contest.

Penn State holds a 13-10 record and is currently 3-9 in Big Ten play. The Nittany Lions are on a four-game losing streak, with their most recent defeat being a 69-61 loss to Minnesota. During this stretch, Penn State has averaged 68.0 points per game, a significant dip from their season average of 81.4 points per game, which ranks 32nd nationally.

Ace Baldwin Jr. leads Penn State with 14.0 points and 7.7 assists per game. Other key contributors include Nick Kern Jr., who averages 12.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, and Yanic Konan Niederhauser, who adds 12.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per contest. Despite their offensive prowess, the Nittany Lions have struggled defensively, allowing 72.5 points per game, ranking 216th nationally. citeturn0search4.

UCLA’s recent form and strong defensive capabilities make them the favorites in this matchup. The Bruins have been particularly effective at home, boasting a 12-1 record at Pauley Pavilion this season. In contrast, Penn State’s recent struggles, especially on the road, present challenges as they face a formidable opponent in UCLA. citeturn0search4

For fans in Benin City, Nigeria, the game is scheduled to tip off at 9:00 PM WAT on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The broadcast will be available on the Big Ten Network.

This game offers an intriguing contrast between UCLA’s defensive strength and Penn State’s high-scoring offense, promising an exciting contest for basketball enthusiasts.