The 2026-2027 UCLA Bruins already have as many losses as last year’s championship team. UCLA dropped an exhibition matchup versus the Canadian National Team on Wednesday 69-55.
UCLA hung with the Canadians for much of the game before running out of steam in the second half. It was a whole new look for UCLA, who lost six players to the WNBA after last year’s NCAA title.
Sienna Betts the superstar
The first action of Sienna Betts’ sophomore season was quite impressive. Not only was she the best player on the Bruins, she was the best player on the court versus the Canadian National Team. Betts looked more mobile than she showed as a freshman, scoring 20 points to help keep the Bruins in the game.
Welcome back, Elina Aarnisalo
Elina Aarnisalo spent one season away from UCLA, missing out on the national championship season by transferring out to North Carolina. Aarnisalo looked improved in her return to the Bruin, showing off some impressive passes and good touch around the basket.
A new look offensive identity
Last year the Bruins had so much talent, there was no need to over-use any particular player. Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, Gianna Kneepkens and Lauren Betts gave the team a plentiful amount of options.
This year’s team doesn’t quite have that luxury. It looks like the Bruins are going to rely heavily on Sienna Betts, with the team hunting post up oppurtunities for the 6’4” Betts.
Bonnie Deas shines the brightest of the transfers
UCLA’s crop of transfers didn’t have too many standout showings. Donovyn Hunter and Addy Brown both started for the Bruins but it was Bonnie Deas who made the biggest impact. Deas had a highlight spin move that left her defender on the hardwood and showed her impact rebounding for a backcourt player.
Lena Bilic continues to look the part
Sophomore Lena Bilic made just two field goals on Wednesday but her ability to create space and rise comfortably with her 6’3” frame. The Croatian forward has the potential to be a key component of the next generation of UCLA basketball.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Five Takeaways: UCLA falls to the Canadian National Team 69-55
Reporting by Dylan McNeill, UCLA Wire / UCLA Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Dylan McNeill, UCLA Wire | USA TODAY Network
