UCLA Downs Delaware State in Final Tune-up To Pac-10

By Bruin Basketball Report

Box Score

Freshman Reeves Nelson scored a career-high 21 points to lead UCLA to a 66-49 victory over Delaware State.

UCLA had trouble shaking off their over-matched opponent at the start, as the Bruins had difficulty hitting from outside, but then they started going inside to Nelson.  The 6'8 post over-powered Delaware State's interior and finished shooting 7 of 8 from the field.

Nikola Dragovic added 11 points but he still struggled from outside, missing 0-3 from beyond the arc.  He was more effective off cuts to the basket and in the post.  If Dragovic's outside touch continues to be AWOL, they could certainly use his size and ability to post on the inside in upcoming contests.

Tyler Honeycutt had perhaps the best game of his freshman season, finishing 5 of 7 from the field for 11 points and dished out 2 assists in 27 minutes of play.  

UCLA needs Honeycutt to play big minutes when they open conference action, his heady play on both ends of the court gives the Bruins a playmaker they sorely miss this year.

Another Bruin freshman, Brendan Lane, played a solid game especially at the high post.  In one instance from the top of the circle he hit a cutting Bobo Morgan for a slam dunk, and then later Lane stepped out to hit a three-point shot.

Sophomore forward Jerime Anderson's subpar play continued today.  Although he had 6 assists, Anderson also had 6 turnovers, including a pick off the dribble in the backcourt by his defender.  He continued with his indecision on the offensive end, costing the Bruins a number of easy scoring opportunities.

The Bruins outrebounded Delaware State 35-25 on the boards.  UCLA shot 52% from the field but only 3 of 12 from beyond the arc.

With the win the Bruins head into Pac-10 play with a 5-7 record.  They face Arizona State in its Pac-10 opener on Thursday at Pauley Pavilion.