The UCLA Bruins men’s basketball team began the year with a blowout victory over Rider in Westwood. On Friday night, the Bruins had a tough test against the New Mexico Lobos in Henderson, Nevada.
Unfortunately, New Mexico came out on top against UCLA. The Lobos had a 41-30 lead at halftime and UCLA couldn’t muster up enough in the second half. New Mexico ended up winning the game, 72-64.
It was a poor effort from UCLA, with the exception of Oregon State transfer Tyler Bilodeau, who led the way again. This time, he had 23 points with 15 rebounds and a pair of steals as he was the only UCLA player to register double figures in points.
Donovan Dent and Nelly Junio Joseph, two returning players for New Mexico, combined for 33 points in a strong effort.
It’s a tough loss for UCLA, although not a bad loss by any means with New Mexico expected to be a strong team. The Bruins next play against Boston University at home on Monday night.