In a thrilling matchup at the CBS Sports Classic in Atlanta, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured a 67-60 victory over the UCLA Bruins on Saturday. Roddy Gayle Jr. led the Buckeyes with 19 points, while Jamison Battle added 14 points, including a crucial 3-pointer in the final minute. Felix Okpara also made key baskets down the stretch to secure the win for Ohio State.
Despite struggling to make shots beyond the arc and a slow start that prompted coach Chris Holtmann to punch his whiteboard in frustration, the Buckeyes managed to come out on top. UCLA, on the other hand, shot just 38% from the field and made only 1 of 9 3-point attempts. Sebastian Mack led the Bruins with 14 points.
Okpara’s strong inside play, highlighted by a pivotal dunk and tip-in late in the game, helped Ohio State to maintain a lead in the closing minutes. While UCLA made a final push to close the gap, Battle’s clutch 3-pointer sealed the victory for the Buckeyes.
Both teams had multiple players scoring in double figures, with Dylan Andrews and Adem Bona contributing 13 and 12 points, respectively, for UCLA. Coach Mick Cronin emphasized the need for more depth for his young team, which features several freshmen and sophomores in the starting lineup.
Despite injuring his hand during the game, Holtmann remained positive, stating that he would be fine after receiving treatment. The Buckeyes will look to build on this win as they continue their season, while UCLA prepares to face Cal State Northridge and Maryland in their upcoming nonconference games.
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