** UCLA Women’s Basketball Dominates Rutgers 86-46, Extends Streak

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The No. 2-ranked UCLA Bruins showcased their dominance once again, overwhelming the Rutgers Scarlet Knights with a decisive 86-46 victory, marking their 16th consecutive win of the season. The matchup, held at the iconic Pauley Pavilion, saw the Bruins come out firing on all cylinders right from the opening whistle, quickly establishing a commanding lead that they would never relinquish.

Freshman sensation Lauren Betts contributed significantly to the Bruins’ success, finishing the game with 11 points on a perfect 5-of-5 shooting performance in just 14 minutes of play. Despite her limited time on the court, Betts’s efficiency highlighted the depth of talent within the UCLA roster. As reported by Yahoo Sports, the Bruins dominated both ends of the floor, with a remarkable display of teamwork and defensive intensity.

The game unfolded with the Bruins jumping out to a quick 10-0 lead, forcing Rutgers to call an early timeout in an attempt to regroup. However, the Scarlet Knights struggled to find their rhythm against a relentless UCLA defense that stifled any offensive momentum. The Bruins’ fast-paced transition game and sharp ball movement created numerous scoring opportunities, allowing them to extend their lead to 25 points by halftime.

Gabriela Jaquez and Kiki Rice were also pivotal in the Bruins’ scoring efforts, each contributing significantly to the final tally. Jaquez, known for her versatility, added 16 points while Rice showcased her playmaking abilities, dishing out multiple assists and controlling the tempo of the game. Lauryn Swann also made her presence felt, adding crucial points that kept the momentum firmly in UCLA’s favor.

The second half saw the Bruins continue to apply pressure, pushing their lead to as much as 42 points at one stage in the fourth quarter. The extensive lead allowed head coach Cori Close to rotate her bench, providing valuable experience to younger players who may play pivotal roles as the season progresses. This depth is essential as the Bruins look ahead to tougher matchups in the coming weeks, particularly with their sights set on the postseason.

While the defeat was a tough pill to swallow for Rutgers, there were moments of resilience from the Scarlet Knights. They managed to put together brief spurts of offensive cohesion, but ultimately, the Bruins’ defensive prowess and high-scoring efficiency proved too overwhelming.

As the Bruins bask in the glory of this latest victory, they continue to solidify their position as a top contender in the NCAA landscape. With their eyes set on a deep tournament run, the Bruins are proving to be a force to be reckoned with. According to Yahoo Sports, UCLA’s unbeaten streak is a testament to both their skill and determination as they strive for championship glory.

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