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UCLA Overcomes Bilodeau Injury to Defeat Michigan State in Big Ten Tournament
Bruins grind out 88-84 victory despite key player's knee sprain
Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:03am
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The UCLA Bruins defeated the Michigan State Spartans 88-84 in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals, overcoming an injury to forward Tyler Bilodeau in the first half. Guard Trent Perry hit clutch free throws late, while Donovan Dent recorded a near triple-double with 23 points, 12 assists, and 6 rebounds. The Bruins' balanced scoring and defensive effort proved too much for the Spartans, who made a late push but couldn't complete the comeback.
Why it matters
This win continues UCLA's recent hot streak, as they've now won 6 of their last 7 games. Despite the loss of Bilodeau, the Bruins showed their depth and resilience, setting them up well for a potential deep tournament run. The loss is a setback for Michigan State, who were hoping to make a statement in the Big Ten Tournament.
The details
UCLA jumped out to a 44-33 halftime lead behind strong 3-point shooting, but Michigan State made a second-half push to cut the deficit to just two points. However, the Bruins responded each time, reestablishing their double-digit advantage. Guard Trent Perry hit clutch free throws late to seal the victory. Donovan Dent nearly recorded a triple-double with 23 points, 12 assists, and 6 rebounds, while Eric Dailey Jr. added a double-double with 14 points and 7 rebounds.
- The game was played on March 14, 2026 in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals.
- Bilodeau exited the game in the first half with a knee sprain.
The players
Mick Cronin
The head coach of the UCLA Bruins basketball team.
Trent Perry
A guard for the UCLA Bruins who scored 22 points and hit crucial free throws late in the game.
Donovan Dent
A guard for the UCLA Bruins who recorded 23 points, 12 assists, and 6 rebounds, nearly achieving a triple-double.
Eric Dailey Jr.
A forward for the UCLA Bruins who had a double-double with 14 points and 7 rebounds, and also contributed 12 deflections.
Tyler Bilodeau
A forward for the UCLA Bruins who exited the game in the first half with a knee sprain.
What they’re saying
“The guys didn't flinch. I was proud of them for that.”
— Mick Cronin, Head Coach, UCLA Bruins
“He was great. He actually beat me by one in our deflection thing; I'm kind of mad about that. He barely got it, but we'll ignore that.”
— Donovan Dent, Guard, UCLA Bruins
“We have so much depth to where the next man can step up anytime.”
— Donovan Dent, Guard, UCLA Bruins
What’s next
The Bruins will face No. 7 seed Purdue in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on the following day.
The takeaway
Despite the loss of a key player to injury, UCLA showed its resilience and depth, grinding out a tough win over a tough Michigan State team. The Bruins' balanced scoring, strong defense, and clutch plays down the stretch demonstrate their potential to make a deep tournament run.
