Latest ESPN standings rank UCLA Bruins outside of top ten

According to the latest ESPN BMI rankings, the UCLA Bruins are sitting at No. 12 overall.

As February rolls on, it’s becoming time for the Bruins to step on the gas pedal.

With March around the corner, UCLA must be able to assert themselves on the floor. They have the stars to do it, so excuses aren’t really an option.

Sitting at 21-3, the Bruins are winners of three of their last five contests.

Out of that group, their blowout win over the Washington Huskies spoke for itself.

Lonzo Ball and TJ Leaf have been a force to be reckoned with, but the challenge remains in making that translate into the postseason.

The latest AP poll was released this morning.

Defending champion Villanova is still the top team to beat according to the poll.

Shockingly, the USC Trojans haven’t gotten much love in the rankings despite being only one game back of the Bruins.

UCLA’s cross-town rival is 20-4 as of right now in a season that should be putting them on the radar as well.

Sometimes, it’s better to be the dark horse, though.

After playing Oregon this week, the Bruins will take their talents back home to host Arizona and ASU.

Following that stretch, their battle with the Trojans will take place at USC.

In order for UCLA not to lose their momentum at this point in the season, Lonzo Ball is going to have to continue to be lights out.

Help from TJ Leaf and other players does wonders, but they have to let their stars be stars.

Ball is likely to be drafted high when he declares for the NBA, and this is the perfect chance for him to show scouts what he’s all about.

Next: Kobe Bryant Memorabilia Stolen

Winning.