UCLA Guard Loses Tooth in NCAA Tournament Dive

Skyy Clark chipped a front tooth after taking an elbow to the mouth while diving for a loose ball.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:43am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

UCLA guard Skyy Clark lost one of his front teeth after diving for a ball and taking an elbow to the mouth during the Bruins' first-round NCAA Tournament game against UCF. Clark headed to the bench briefly to address the injury but quickly returned to the game, showcasing his toughness and dedication to his team.

Why it matters

Clark's willingness to sacrifice his body for the team underscores the intensity and physicality of the NCAA Tournament, where players often put it all on the line in pursuit of a championship. This incident also highlights the risks and dangers that college basketball players face, even in the midst of high-stakes tournament play.

The details

Late in the second half, Clark dove for a loose ball, but took an elbow to the mouth in the process. The impact caused one of his front teeth to fly out, creating a dramatic scene on the court. Clark left the game briefly to address the injury but returned shortly after, determined to help his team advance in the tournament.

  • The incident occurred late in the second half of UCLA's first-round NCAA Tournament game against UCF on March 21, 2026.

The players

Skyy Clark

A senior guard for the UCLA Bruins, Clark is averaging 11.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game this season.

UCLA Bruins

The UCLA men's basketball team, which is competing in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

UCF Knights

The University of Central Florida men's basketball team, which faced off against UCLA in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Skyy Clark left it all on the court, including a tooth, in UCLA's first-round NCAA Tournament showdown against UCF.”

— Grant Grubbs, Author

What’s next

The Bruins will advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament, where they will face the winner of the game between Gonzaga and Saint Mary's.

The takeaway

Clark's willingness to sacrifice his body for the team underscores the dedication and toughness of college basketball players, who often put it all on the line in pursuit of a championship. This incident serves as a reminder of the physical toll that the NCAA Tournament can take on players, even in the midst of high-stakes competition.