UCLA dominates Fresno State by 56 points in Hawaii showdown
- Lauren Betts led UCLA with 20 points and 12 rebounds, aiding the team's strong performance.
- UCLA outscored Fresno State 28-6 in the decisive second quarter.
- The Bruins' victory reinforces their status as the top team in the country, extending their win streak against Fresno State.
On November 30, 2024, in Honolulu, USA, the top-ranked UCLA women's basketball team showcased their dominance in a decisive matchup against Fresno State during the Rainbow Wahine Showdown. The game ended with an overwhelming score of 97-41, marking UCLA's seventh consecutive win of the season and extending their unbeaten streak to 7-0. Lauren Betts emerged as a standout player, leading the Bruins with an impressive double-double of 20 points, complemented by 12 rebounds, seven of which were on the offensive glass. UCLA demonstrated a powerful offense and a strong rebounding advantage, outscoring Fresno State 58-18 in the paint and converting 28 points from the 24 turnovers forced on their opponents. The Bruins exhibited exceptional teamwork, with five players reaching double digits in scoring. Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez contributed significantly with 15 points each, while Janiah Barker added 13 points and Angela Dugalic scored 11 points, all prior to halftime. Fresno State, despite bringing a four-game winning streak into the tournament, struggled throughout the game, finishing with a field goal percentage of only 27%. The Bulldogs were particularly challenged by UCLA's defensive intensity and offensive efficiency, managing to only score six points in the second quarter while UCLA exploded for 28 points in that same period. The game highlighted Fresno State's inability to find rhythm, as they relied heavily on three-point shots, with 10 out of their 13 field goals coming from beyond the arc. As the game progressed, UCLA maintained control and expanded their lead significantly, reaching a maximum advantage of 59 points in the final minutes. The Bruins had previously faced a comfortable victory over Tennessee-Martin just a day before, adding to their momentum. This match was particularly significant as it extended UCLA's winning streak against Fresno State to 11 straight victories. Both teams were scheduled to complete the Rainbow Wahine Showdown with additional games against Hawaii and Tennessee-Martin, respectively, allowing for further opportunities to assess their performances in the tournament.