Lauren Betts Sets School Block Record, Leads UCLA Past Illinois 70-55

In a dominant performance, UCLA's Lauren Betts scored 22 points and set a new single-season record for blocks with six, bringing her total to 67, during the Bruins' 70-55 victory over Illinois. This win marked UCLA's eighth triumph over a ranked opponent this season and kept them in contention for the Big Ten title, as they currently sit half a game behind USC. Betts, who recently returned from a foot injury, also contributed seven rebounds, highlighting her critical role in UCLA's success. Kiki Rice added 16 points, helping the Bruins secure a strong fourth-quarter lead after a brief Illinois comeback. The defeat snapped Illinois' eight-game winning streak and leaves them tied for fourth place in the conference. UCLA, with a record of 25-1, is on track for a double bye in the upcoming conference tournament as they continue to eye a deep NCAA Tournament run.