The UCLA Bruins men's basketball team has demonstrated remarkable resilience and strategic depth, navigating recent games with significant success despite the absence of a crucial player. Their upcoming road game against the Oregon Ducks presents an opportunity to further solidify their standing, even as the Ducks contend with a challenging losing streak and multiple player injuries.
UCLA Bruins Prepare for Road Challenge Against Ailing Oregon Ducks
On Wednesday, January 27, 2026, the UCLA Bruins are set to embark on a brief road trip to Eugene, Oregon, for a Big Ten Conference matchup against the struggling Oregon Ducks. This game is pivotal for the Bruins, who are eager to maintain their winning momentum and avoid any complacency against an opponent currently facing numerous challenges.
The Bruins, with a record of 14-6 overall and 6-3 in the Big Ten, have defied expectations in recent weeks. Despite the absence of their starting guard, Skyy Clark, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since January 3, the team has managed to secure four victories in their last five outings. These impressive wins include triumphs over then-No. 4 Purdue and Northwestern, both clinched on their home court at Pauley Pavilion. Clark's absence has left a void, as he contributes an average of 13.5 points per game and boasts a 48.6% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, in addition to being a key defensive asset. Head coach Mick Cronin has lauded his team's ability to win in the conference without Clark, emphasizing the player's eagerness to return and the team's commitment to holding their ground until his recovery.
In Clark's stead, Trent Perry has stepped up, assuming a starting guard position and delivering an impressive average of 16.2 points over the last six games, highlighted by a career-best 30 points against Penn State on January 14. In their recent 71-64 victory over Northwestern on Saturday, Tyler Bilodeau and Perry each contributed 18 points. Bilodeau leads the Bruins in scoring this season, averaging 18.2 points over 18 games.
Conversely, the Oregon Ducks are currently in a precarious position, enduring a six-game losing streak in conference play. Their recent defeat came on Sunday in a 72-57 loss to Washington. During this game, despite Sean Stewart's 15 points and Kwame Evans Jr.'s 11, the Ducks were significantly outrebounded, 45-23, conceding 18 offensive rebounds. Coach Dana Altman acknowledged the rebounding issue as a major concern, stating it was a known problem that proved more severe than anticipated.
Adding to Oregon's woes are significant injuries to their leading scorers. Nate Bittle, who averages 16.3 points, has missed the last three games due to an ankle injury, and Jackson Shelstad, with an average of 15.6 points, has been out since December 28 because of a hand injury. Both players are not expected to participate in Wednesday's game. Furthermore, the Ducks' three-point shooting has been lackluster, ranking 12th in the Big Ten at 33.1% and a mere 20% (3 of 15) against Washington.
The last encounter between these two teams saw UCLA secure a 74-63 home victory over Oregon on December 6, with Eric Dailey Jr. leading the Bruins with 18 points. Shelstad was the top scorer for the Ducks in that game, tallying 20 points.
The upcoming clash is more than just another game; it's a test of resilience for UCLA and a desperate attempt for Oregon to turn their season around. For UCLA, it’s about maintaining sharp focus and executing their game plan, not allowing the opponent's struggles to lead to a lapse in performance. This scenario serves as a powerful reminder in sports that strong teams capitalize on opportunities, and preparation is key, regardless of the opponent's current form. It also highlights the critical impact of teamwork and emergent leadership when key players are unavailable. The Bruins' ability to adapt and excel without Clark underscores their depth and the strategic acumen of their coaching staff, offering valuable lessons in overcoming adversity.