UCLA Basketball Bubble Watch: NCAA Tournament Odds, Path to the Dance With 1 Week to Go

The Bruins sit at 20-10 overall with one regular season game left, but their March Madness chances remain high.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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UCLA basketball currently sits at 20-10 overall with one regular season game left. The Bruins are still in good shape to make the NCAA Tournament, but their 10 losses have sparked bubble chatter. Head coach Mick Cronin has also generated headlines, from ejecting a player to questioning the Big Ten's scheduling. Despite a 12-7 record in conference play and wins over top-10 teams, UCLA's 4-8 record in Quad 1 games is a concern. The Bruins' NCAA Tournament odds are still high, with a 99.9% chance to make the tournament, including a 98.9% probability for an at-large bid.

Why it matters

UCLA's performance this season and their potential NCAA Tournament berth are significant for the program and its fans. The Bruins have faced some challenges, including losses to unranked opponents, but have also picked up impressive wins over top-ranked teams. Their standing on the NCAA Tournament bubble and the potential implications of their performance in the final week of the regular season and the Big Ten Tournament are closely watched by college basketball fans.

The details

UCLA owns a 12-7 record in Big Ten play, but its 4-8 record in Quad 1 games has been a concern. The Bruins have defeated three teams ranked in the top 10 (No. 10 Illinois, No. 9 Nebraska, and No. 4 Purdue) to boost their tournament resume. However, losses to unranked Minnesota, Ohio State, and Wisconsin have also been setbacks. The return of Skyy Clark has boosted UCLA during this final push, and Tyler Bilodeau has emerged as a potential All-Big Ten honoree, providing additional scoring options alongside Donovan Dent and Trent Perry in the backcourt.

  • UCLA has one regular season game left before the Big Ten Tournament.
  • The NCAA Tournament selection show is scheduled for March 15.

The players

Mick Cronin

The head coach of the UCLA Bruins basketball team, who has generated headlines for ejecting a player and questioning the Big Ten's scheduling.

Steven Jamerson

A UCLA basketball player who was ejected by head coach Mick Cronin.

Skyy Clark

A UCLA basketball player whose return has boosted the Bruins during their final push.

Tyler Bilodeau

A UCLA basketball player who has emerged as a potential All-Big Ten honoree, providing additional scoring options for the Bruins.

Donovan Dent

A UCLA basketball player who is part of the Bruins' backcourt.

Trent Perry

A UCLA basketball player who is part of the Bruins' backcourt.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.