UCLA Advances to Sweet 16 with Dominant Win over Oklahoma State

Bruins center Lauren Betts leads the way with career-high 35 points

Mar. 24, 2026 at 6:09am

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The top-seeded UCLA Bruins defeated Oklahoma State 87-68 in the second round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament. Center Lauren Betts had a dominant performance, scoring a career-high 35 points on 15-of-19 shooting to go with 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The Bruins, winners of 27 straight games, will face Minnesota in the Sweet 16.

Why it matters

UCLA's continued success in the NCAA tournament keeps them on track for a potential national championship run. Betts' standout game highlights the team's depth and versatility, making them a formidable opponent for any remaining opponent.

The details

The Bruins got a huge game from Betts, who was efficient scoring in the paint and also contributed on the glass and as a playmaker. Teammate Gianna Kneepkens praised Betts' leadership in pushing the team. Head coach Cori Close said the team's seniors, playing their final home game, were focused on the business at hand while also celebrating the moment.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 24, 2026 at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles.
  • UCLA will face Minnesota in the Sweet 16 on Friday, March 28, 2026 at 4:30pm.

The players

Lauren Betts

A dominant center for the UCLA Bruins who scored a career-high 35 points in the win over Oklahoma State.

Gianna Kneepkens

A teammate of Betts who praised her leadership and ability to make the team better.

Cori Close

The head coach of the UCLA Bruins, guiding the team to its fourth consecutive trip to the Sweet 16.

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What they’re saying

“I think I was just working really hard today on getting seals, and my teammates did a really good job of finding me today. Some of those passes were absolutely insane.”

— Lauren Betts

“She makes everyone better not just because of the basketball player she is, but the leader she is. She challenges us, she pushes us, she just wants what's best for the team.”

— Gianna Kneepkens, Teammate

“I want them to celebrate this moment. I want them to have the joy of what they have given this community.”

— Cori Close, Head Coach

What’s next

UCLA will face fourth-seeded Minnesota in the Sacramento 2 Regional semifinal on Friday, March 28, 2026 at 4:30pm.

The takeaway

UCLA's dominant performance, led by the standout play of center Lauren Betts, keeps the Bruins on track for a potential national championship run. The team's depth, versatility, and senior leadership have them poised for a deep tournament push.