Game Night: UH vs. UCLA

Tough night in Westwood for the ‘Bows, who fell 80-61 to UCLA in Pauley Pavilion.

Prince Ali stole the show, pouring in a season-high 23 points. He started off with four all-swish 3s and finished with a thunderous dunk.

The ‘Bows bench had some nice moments. Owen Hulland had a 14 points, and Samuta Avea had a run with jumpers and aggressive defense.

The ‘Bows return home tomorrow, having gone 1-3 on this trip. Next game is Dec. 8 against UH-Hilo.

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UCLA seized control early, thanks to guard Prince Ali.

Ali hit three 3s to stake the Bruins to a 14-3 lead. The Bruins finished the first half with eight 3, led by Ali’s 4-for-4 shooting from behind the arc.

It was a pick-your-poison first half for the ‘Bows. When they focused on Ali, 7-foot-1 Moses Brown, who was loitering in the low post, would score on dunks or putbacks.

Wing Kris Wilkes also trespassed the lane with drives and, when the ‘Bows’ man-to-mans scheme sagged, he would hit mid-range jumpers.

The ‘Bows employed their three 7-footers. Owen Hulland provided hustle and a surprising touch. He buried a 3, then sneaked past Brown for a reverse layup.

But the ‘Bows were not able to find consistency. They connected on 27.3 percent of their first-half shots (nine of 33).

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Outside it is dark, but inside Pauley Pavilion it is sky blue.

OK, make that UCLA Blue.

Yes, in Westwood, UCLA even has its own color.

From the banners to the illuminatedz retired jerseys to the court named after John Wooden, this is one of the best venues in college sports.

UCLA, with three projected 2019 first-round draft selections, takes on the gritty Rainbow Warriors tonight.

Please share your comments and observations.