It's the D, stooopid!
I doubt we can keep it up, but holding Rut to 24!!!! points is a helluva accomplishment. A big part of that is incomprehensively shutting out Francis, which will NOT come close to happening in the 2H.
Bilo is the center of attention on O (game-high 9 pts, but only 2-6 in the 1H) and D (a do-si-do 1 PF which might be the biggest + factor for UCLA in the 1H ~~~ they will be targeting Tyler on the ***O*** end in the 2H).
Elaborating on the D, Skyy in spots has been playing disruptive D, albeit his O game has been AWOL.
Somehow we're outboarding them 20-19, which has been a principal factor in our 6-pt lead, a margin which ain't shabby for the opening 20.
Both teams shooting only 31% which CMC commented on at halftime.
It's the B10 Tourney, where you gotta play your arse off for the full 40. Hopefully, UCLA can keep them at bay and nurse that lead to the finish line as the nicely favored team.
GO BRUINS!