No. 12 Men’s Basketball Wins at San Diego State, 67-60 | UCLA took to the road in its first of two preseason exhibition games on Friday. The Bruins never trailed against San Diego State, leading 17-0 early in the game before the host Aztecs cut UCLA’s cushion down to four points – at 52-49, with 7:36 to play in …

12. UCLA Basketball Dominates San Diego State Exhibition

## UCLA Bruins Secure Exhibition Win Over Aztecs

### Preseason Tune-Up Shows Early Promise for Top-Ranked Squad

The No. 12 UCLA men’s basketball team kicked off their exhibition schedule with a road victory against San Diego State, securing a 67-60 win. The Bruins demonstrated strong early performance, establishing a significant lead and maintaining control for much of the contest. While the Aztecs mounted a comeback attempt in the second half, UCLA’s resilience and strategic play ultimately secured the preseason triumph.

## Early Dominance and Shifting Momentum

UCLA established an impressive early advantage, building a 17-0 lead before San Diego State could find their footing. This commanding start showcased the Bruins’ offensive capabilities and defensive intensity. However, the Aztecs, known for their tenacious play, clawed their way back into the game. By the 7:36 mark in the second half, San Diego State had narrowed the deficit to a mere three points, with the score standing at 52-49 in favor of UCLA. This period of the game highlighted the competitive nature of the exhibition and provided valuable learning opportunities for both teams.

### Key Takeaways from the Bruins’ Performance

* **Strong Defensive Start:** The Bruins’ initial defensive pressure stifled the Aztecs, preventing them from scoring for a significant portion of the early game.
* **Offensive Consistency:** Despite the Aztecs’ surge, UCLA managed to maintain a scoring presence and prevent a complete collapse.
* **Exhibition Value:** The game served as a crucial test for UCLA, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and refine their strategies before the regular season begins.

## Facing Challenges and Building Towards the Season

The exhibition game provided a realistic glimpse into the challenges UCLA might face during the regular season. San Diego State’s ability to narrow the lead demonstrated that no opponent can be taken lightly. The Bruins’ response to this pressure, however, was a testament to their experience and depth. They were able to weather the storm and ultimately close out the game.

### Strategic Adjustments and Player Development

Coaches likely used this exhibition to assess player rotations and tactical adjustments. The ability to adapt when faced with a tightening score is a vital component of any successful team. For UCLA, this game offered a practical environment to work on:

1. **Maintaining Composure:** Staying calm and executing plays under pressure.
2. **Effective Communication:** Ensuring clear on-court dialogue to manage runs and defensive assignments.
3. **Clutch Performance:** Making critical shots and defensive stops in the game’s crucial moments.

The Bruins’ victory against a competitive San Diego State squad is an encouraging sign for their upcoming season. It underscores their potential and the hard work being put in during the preseason.

For further insights into college basketball strategies and team analysis, consider exploring resources from [NCAA.com](https://www.ncaa.com/sports/m-baskbl/exhibition/2023-24/schedule) or reputable sports journalism outlets like [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/).

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