UCLA vs. Kentucky: Three keys to victory for the Bruins

Mar 19, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins bench react late in game against the Cincinnati Bearcats during the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 19, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins bench react late in game against the Cincinnati Bearcats during the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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UCLA vs. Kentucky – Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
UCLA vs. Kentucky – Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Lonzo Being Lonzo

The Bruins go as Lonzo Ball goes. When he is healthy and out of foul trouble, the Bruins offense is reminiscent of the early 1990’s UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, or something out of the Magic Johnson-era Showtime Lakers. The court savvy of Ball is unparalleled for a 19-year old, as his vision, anticipation and decision-making are causing NBA scouts to salivate.

Ball is shooting 55.6% from the field, 42% from three-point range, and leading the nation with 7.6 assists per game. He also contributes nearly a block per game to go with his 1.9 steals average. The heart and soul of the offense, Ball generally looks to distribute early to get his teammates involved. He is an aggressive rebounder, nabbing 6.1 rebounds per contest, and always pushes the pace, without playing out of control.

Ball is selective with his shooting, averaging 14.7 points on only 9.5 shots per game. He really does make players around him better. If he avoids a fall and bad fouls, UCLA stays competitive and likely reprises their early season victory. The ball, as it were, is in Ball’s hands – just where the Bruins want it to be.