Balance has been key for the top-seeded Bruins, who blend youth and experience in pursuit of their first national championship since 2009
UCLA goalkeeper Lauren Steele. who was named MPSF Tournament MVP after the Bruins won the title April 28, is one of several freshmen key to the Bruins’ undefeated season heading into the NCAA Tournament this weekend. UCLA women’s water polo has balance this season not just in its attack, but also in its mix of youth and veteran players.
The undefeated Bruins will open tournament play Friday against the winner of the Wagner-Biola game. Other teams in the tournament bracket include No. 2 seed Hawai’i, No. 3 seed California, No. 4 seed Stanford, USC, Princeton and Fresno State. Steele has had a decorated initial season at UCLA after deciding to graduate from Orange Lutheran High early and arrive on campus Dec. 28. She was named the 2024 MPSF Tournament MVP after making 14 saves and recording one steal in a 13-10 win over Cal in the championship game April 28.
The freshman’s steady presence in the cage has allowed UCLA to lock down on defense and let its balanced attack to move forward. Freshman Panni Szegedi, who moved from Budapest, Hungary, to join the team early, has been a big part of that attack.She had a hat trick against USC to help close out the Bruins’ first undefeated regular season since 2008.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
UCLA Women's Basketball: Bruins Announce Big 10 Schedule for Conference DebutThe home and away opponents have been announced for UCLA women's basketball's first season in the Big Ten.
Read more »
UCLA Women's Basketball: 11 Bruins Alums in WNBA for 2024 SeasonHere are the eleven former UCLA women's basketball stars to watch in the WNBA during the 2024 season.
Read more »
UCLA Women's Basketball: 5-Star Commit Breaks Down Decision to Join Bruins in 2025The Bruins are looking far ahead.
Read more »
UCLA Women’s Basketball: All-Pac-12 Rival Transfers to BruinsThe Bruins have added a special former Pac-12 star to their roster this season.
Read more »
UCLA Women's Basketball: Bruins Recruit Has Family Ties Already in ProgramSister of UCLA's Lauren Betts is looking to pave her own way with the Bruins
Read more »
UCLA Women's Basketball: How Good Can Bruins Get Next Season After Sweet 16 Run?The Bruins will be looking to capitalize on their success this year with their play next season
Read more »