Get ready for a thrilling basketball showdown as the Aztecs gear up for a sneak peek of their potential against the mighty UCLA Bruins! But this isn't just any exhibition game; it's a chance to rewrite history and defy the odds.
A Tale of Two Teams:
The last time these teams clashed in San Diego, the Aztecs were in a dire 2-26 season, a far cry from their current status. Back in 1991, the Bruins triumphed 84-64, but fast forward to today, and the tables have turned. The Aztecs have risen from the ashes, qualifying for more NCAA Tournaments in the last 15 seasons than UCLA, a program steeped in basketball lore.
The Exhibition Twist:
This Friday, the Aztecs and Bruins will face off in an exhibition game at Viejas Arena, a rare public spectacle after years of closed-door scrimmages and pandemic-induced restrictions. The Bruins, ranked 12th in the AP preseason poll, will be a formidable challenge for the unranked Aztecs, but it's a challenge they're eager to embrace.
The Money and the Motivation:
UCLA's decision to play this game in San Diego raised eyebrows, but the $90,000 payout is a significant incentive. Moreover, it offers a mid-preseason progress report against top-tier opposition, which is invaluable for both teams. And with the NCAA's recent allowance of charity exhibitions, the players themselves benefit from the proceeds.
Emotions Run High:
Aztecs coach Brian Dutcher highlights the emotional aspect of playing in front of fans. He acknowledges the challenge of keeping emotions in check, especially for his players, who are eager to prove themselves. This game will test their ability to maintain composure and perform under pressure.
Injury Woes and Lineup Decisions:
While the Aztecs have a strong roster, injuries have caused some lineup shuffling. Junior guard Miles Byrd and 7-foot sophomore star Magoon Gwath are both recovering from injuries and won't start. Gwath, the Mountain West Freshman and Defensive Player of the Year, is making progress but is not yet ready for full contact. Coach Dutcher plans to have him back in November, but it's a gradual process.
A Battle for Starting Spots:
The competition for starting positions is fierce, especially at point guard and center. Coach Dutcher hints at potential lineup changes for the upcoming exhibition and season opener. With Byrd and Gwath expected to start once healthy, the current exhibition provides an opportunity for other players to shine.
UCLA's Formidable Squad:
The Bruins boast a talented roster, including four returning key players from their 23-11 season. Seniors Tyler Bilodeau and Skyy Clark are standout performers. Additionally, they've bolstered their lineup with impressive transfers like Donovan Dent, a former Mountain West Player of the Year, and highly-rated recruits Xavier Booker, Jamar Brown, and Steven Jamerson III.
A Ticket to Witness History:
Fans eager to witness this basketball spectacle can purchase tickets outside the season-ticket package, with prices starting at $47.15. The game will not be televised, and radio coverage is limited to UCLA's broadcast.
A Friendly Competition:
Coach Dutcher anticipates a hard-fought game but emphasizes that both teams will value the learning experience. The exhibition will provide insights into team dynamics and performance, leaving fans and coaches alike eager for answers.
The Big Question:
Will the Aztecs pull off an upset and prove their worth against the highly-ranked Bruins? Or will UCLA remind everyone why they're a force to be reckoned with? The exhibition game promises to be a captivating contest, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. And the best part? You have to be there to find out!
