UCLA Bruins Face Minnesota Golden Gophers in College Basketball Matchup

The two teams meet at Williams Arena in Minneapolis, with the Bruins favored by 1.5 points.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The UCLA Bruins and Minnesota Golden Gophers will face off in a college basketball game on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Williams Arena in Minneapolis. The Bruins are currently favored by 1.5 points over the home team Golden Gophers. UCLA has won 4 of its last 6 games, while Minnesota has lost 10 of its last 13 games. Both teams have standout players, with UCLA's Tyler Bilodeau averaging 17.9 points and 5.7 rebounds, and Minnesota's Cade Tyson averaging 19.6 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Why it matters

This matchup between the Bruins and Golden Gophers is an important Big Ten conference game for both teams as they look to improve their records and positioning in the standings. UCLA is seeking to maintain its momentum after recent wins, while Minnesota is hoping to turn things around at home after a tough stretch.

The details

The Bruins are averaging 78 points per game on 48.7% shooting, while allowing 71.5 points per game on 43.1% shooting. The Golden Gophers are averaging 70.8 points per game on 45.7% shooting, while allowing 68.1 points per game on 44% shooting. Both teams have strong individual performers, with UCLA's Bilodeau and Minnesota's Tyson leading the way.

  • The game will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST.
  • UCLA is coming off wins against Illinois and USC, while Minnesota recently beat Rutgers but lost to Michigan.

The players

Tyler Bilodeau

UCLA's leading scorer, averaging 17.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

Donovan Dent

UCLA's second-leading scorer, averaging 13.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game.

Cade Tyson

Minnesota's leading scorer, averaging 19.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

Jaylen Crocker-Johnson

Minnesota's second-leading scorer, averaging 13.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

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What’s next

The winner of this game will look to build momentum heading into their next matchup, while the loser will aim to rebound and get back on track.

The takeaway

This Big Ten conference matchup between the UCLA Bruins and Minnesota Golden Gophers features two teams with standout individual players and a lot on the line as they jockey for position in the standings. The home-court advantage for Minnesota could be a key factor in determining the outcome of this close contest.