As a die-heart UCLA basketball fan, we here at Star Rankers have had the privilege of witnessing some incredible games over the years. UCLA has a rich history filled with thrilling victories and heart-wrenching defeats. The UCLA Bruins men’s basketball program represents the University of California, Los Angeles in the sport of men’s basketball.

The team has the honour of winning a record 11 NCAA titles. It is the most successful college in terms of both basketball and academics. In this article, we’ll go through the top 10 matches in UCLA basketball history.

Top 10 Unforgettable Matches in UCLA Basketball History:

10. 1967 NCAA Championship Game: UCLA vs. Dayton

This basketball tournament consisted of 23 schools playing in single-elimination play to determine the national champion of men’s NCAA Division I college basketball. UCLA was coached by John Wooden and won the national title with a 79-64 victory in the final game over Dayton.

UCLA basketball schedule was pretty hectic during this season. This game marked the beginning of UCLA’s dynasty under coach John Wooden. They were led by none other than Lew Alcindor (later Kareem Abdul-Jabbar). It was a testament to his ability and was a defining moment for the program.

9. 1974 NCAA Championship Game: UCLA vs. North Carolina State

This was one of the most memorable championship games ever, if you were present on that day, you wouldn’t ever be able to forget that game. This memorable UCLA basketball game is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling and iconic games in the history of college basketball. The UCLA Bruins, under the leadership of coach John Wooden, were pursuing their seventh consecutive NCAA championship, having already established themselves as a basketball dynasty.

UCLA’s basketball roster consisted of legends such as Bill Walton. The game was pretty much tied up but in double overtime, Bill Walton’s dominant performance, scoring 44 points, secured the Bruins’ seventh consecutive national title. This performance was pure magic to watch. Everyone in attendance stood up and the screams could be heard miles away.

8. 1995 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Missouri

UCLA basketball team was very determined to win this match. And with UCLA’s basketball roster consisting of players like Tyus Edney, they had every chance in the book to win this match. In the last seconds of the match, when all hope was gone, Tyus Edney’s coast-to-coast buzzer-beater to defeat Missouri in the second round of the NCAA tournament is still talked about to this day.

This game became a symbol of the kind of dramatic moments that make March Madness such a beloved event in college sports. This game boosted the morale of the players so much that they went on to win the 1995 NCAA. Despite UCLA’s basketball schedule being so difficult.

7. 1995 NCAA Championship Game: UCLA vs. Arkansas

Since we’ve already mentioned above that UCLA won the championship in 1995, this game was truly memorable. They clinched their 11^th NCAA championship with a win over Arkansas.

As the game entered its last moments, the score was tied at 70-70, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion. All eyes were on Tyus Edney as he previously helped the team win against Missouri but this time his attempt to succeed was blocked but UCLA basketball roster is full of players who are determined to win.

His teammate, Kris Johnson was there for the offensive rebound. He put the ball back up and scored, giving UCLA a 72-70 lead with just 4.8 seconds left on the clock. UCLA’s defense held strong in the final seconds, solidifying their victory.

6. 2006 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Gonzaga

The Sweet 16 clash between UCLA and Gonzaga was a tightly contested battle from the opening tip-off. Both teams had a solid defense, making every basket hard-fought. But the Bruins were determined to score and even though the lead changed hands multiple times throughout the game, neither team could gain a decisive advantage.

The score was deadlocked and neither team could figure out how to gain an advantage but as the fate of the game hung in the balance, a hero emerged, Jordan Farmar was the man who rose to the occasion. With just over ten seconds left on the clock, Farmar drove to the basket and sank a layup to give the team a one-point lead.

UCLA basketball recruiting team is always on the lookout for players such as Farmar who face the pressure head-on and emerge victorious. To all you, young players out there, work on your mental game as well. UCLA emerged victorious with a final score of 73-71.

5. 2008 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Texas

The UCLA Bruins, under the leadership of head coach Ben Howland, entered the 2008 NCAA Tournament with a strong squad led by Kevin Love, and Russell Westbrook, both of whom went on to have successful careers in the NBA. UCLA basketball schedule was such a hectic one but the players dealt with it well.

The final four-matchup between UCLA and Texas was a highly anticipated showdown between two teams known for their talented rosters and defensive prowess. This game was a battle of wills from the start, both teams exchanged baskets and the game was pretty much tied up.

The outcome hung in the balance until the final minutes, as the game entered its final moments, the score was deadlocked. The UCLA basketball team looked at Russell Westbrook as he drove to the basket and converted a layup, that gave Bruins a one-point lead.

For college basketball fans this remains a memorable moment in the history of college basketball, showcasing the passion, drama, and excitement that define March Madness.

4. 2013 Pac-12 Championship: UCLA vs Arizona

This game between the UCLA Bruins and the Arizona Wildcats was an exciting matchup that showcased the intensity of college basketball. The match was played in the infamous MGM Grand Garden Arena, and it was a pivotal moment for both teams.

Under the guidance of head coach Ben Howland, and UCLA basketball roster contained players like Shabazz Muhammad, Jordan Adams, and Larry Drew II. From the opening it was evident that this game would be a close one, both teams had the lead multiple teams but it wasn’t clear who was going to win.

Shabazz Muhammad was the man of the match; he sank a crucial three-pointer which became the major reason for the team’s win. UCLA emerged victorious with a final score of 66-64.

3. 2021 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Michigan

This game needs to be injected into the veins of every college football fan, the clash between these two giants will forever be remembered for its dramatic twists and unforgettable moments. The UCLA Bruins, led by head coach Mick Cronin, throughout the tournament, defeated opponents in a formidable manner.

The game had all the ingredients of a classic with two teams known for both their defense and offense. Both the teams made it difficult for either side to find easy scoring opportunities. The lead changed hands multiple times, but the UCLA basketball roster consisted of players like Johnny Juzang were determined to win and he clutched a basket to put the Bruins ahead.

In the second overtime, UCLA’s defense was so tight that Michigan couldn’t even score a single point and the basket from Johnny Juzang put UCLA in the lead and they managed to win. This UCLA basketball match was etched in history.

2. 2021 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Gonzaga (Championship Game)

This game was a stunning display of skill, determination, and heart that left fans on the edge of their seats. UCLA entered the tournament as an 11^th seed, defying the odds and expectations. Their journey in the history of college football is one of dramatic victories and an unwavering belief in their skills.

This matchup was one for the ages, as UCLA was an underdog against the giants known as the Gonzaga squad. Before the match even started it was evident that this would be something special. The lead changed hands, but the score remained tight throughout the game.

The defense was key to win in this game as both teams had strong offensive prowess. Heading into the second overtime the score was tied at 90-90 and this crucial moment, Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs scored a sensational goal and the Gonzaga fans erupted in celebration, though UCLA didn’t win it was a match for the ages. This UCLA basketball match proved that college basketball can never be boring.

1. 2021 NCAA Tournament: UCLA vs. Michigan State (First Four)

If You missed this UCLA basketball match then you were living under a rock.This match was a thrilling start to March Madness. The UCLA Bruins, under the guidance of head coach Mick Cronin, were determined to make a statement in the tournament.

The first four matchup between the two was a high-stakes battle as both the teams were aware that a loss would end their tournament dreams immediately. The intensity was palpable as the teams traded baskets and defensive stops.

As the game headed into overtime, the score was tied at 77-77. In the closing moments of overtime, UCLA’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. delivered a clutch basket to put the team ahead. With this determination and wit, UCLA managed to secure the victory at 86-80.

Final Thoughts:

These matches are just a glimpse into the rich history of UCLA basketball. Each game brought moments of victory, heartbreak, and memorable memories for fans like us. UCLA basketball has provided us with so many memories, over the years we’ve seen the team rise in a dominant manner and also the heart-wrenching defeats that left us fans crying in a corner.

But with their rich history, it is evident that the team is made for glory, and with each exciting match they continue to prove that they are here to stay. Here’s to more unforgettable games in the future! Go Bruins!