The UCLA Bruins ended the first half on a 25-10 run to take a 36-21 lead over the Utah Utes at halftime at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. Center Joshua Smith led the Bruins in the first half with nine points, making three of his four shots from the field. This is the first matchup between the two schools since the 1983 NCAA Tournament.
David Wear rebounded from his left knee injury to score seven points and grab five rebounds in the first half. Twin brother Travis Wear added four points for UCLA, who shot 48.1% (13 for 27) in the first half. The Bruins had nine assists, led by Lazeric Jones with three, and just two turnovers in the opening half.
Chris Hines led the Utes with eight points, and was the only Utah player to score more than three points in the first half. Utah shot just 34.8% (eight for 23) in the opening 20 minutes. Guard Cedric Martin didn't score a point for the Utes, but led the team with five rebounds in the first half.
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