Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Reeves Nelson's double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds led the way for UCLA, as the Bruins defeated the Pepperdine Waves, 79-69, in the NIT Season Tip-Off at Pauley Pavilion. Tyler Honeycutt added 16 points for UCLA (2-0), while Joshua Smith and Lazeric Jones contributed 13 points apiece. Keion Bell poured in 24 points for Pepperdine (0-2), but also committed eight turnovers in the loss. Mychel Thompson chipped in 11 points in the losing effort.
The Bruins went into the break with a 36-34 lead after shooting a sizzling 55.6 percent from the field in the first half. UCLA continued its strong play offensively in the second stanza, as the Bruins shot an impressive 50.0 percent over the final 20 minutes en route to the 10- point win.
UCLA will now play Pacific Tuesday night in the next round of the NIT Season Tip-Off.
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