Gophers Edge UCLA 64-61, Garcia Scores 32 Points

The Minnesota Gophers men's basketball team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat UCLA 64-61, overcoming a 17-point deficit in the first half. Dawson Garcia led the charge with a season-high 32 points, scoring 27 of them after halftime, including two crucial free throws with less than a second remaining to seal the victory. Lu’Cye Patterson also played a pivotal role, scoring 11 points and making a key layup to give the Gophers their first lead of the game in the final minute. This win marks Minnesota's successful West Coast trip, having also defeated USC, making them only the second Big Ten team to sweep both California teams this season. UCLA struggled at the line, missing critical free throws in the decisive moments, while Minnesota shot impressively from the free throw line, helping them secure the win. The Gophers' comeback is indicative of their resilience this season, having previously overcome significant deficits in other games as well.