Gabriela Jaquez Shines as No. 3 UCLA Dominates No. 14 Tennessee

In a stunning display of talent, Gabriela Jaquez propelled No. 3 UCLA to a commanding 99-77 victory over No. 14 Tennessee on March 15, 2026. The junior forward, often overlooked in preseason awards, showcased her capabilities at Pauley Pavilion, contributing significantly to the Bruins’ success and solidifying her status as a player to watch this season.

Jaquez’s Breakout Performance

Jaquez’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. She finished the game with a season-high 29 points, shooting an impressive 10-of-14 from the field and 5-of-6 from three-point range. Her early contributions included a crucial three-pointer that came after a steal against former teammate Janiah Barker, setting the tone for the match.

Despite not being featured on the Wooden Award watchlist at the start of the season, Jaquez has emerged as a pivotal player for the Bruins. Her ability to score from long range has made her a formidable threat, particularly evident in the first half against Tennessee where she sank four of five three-point attempts. This shooting prowess helped UCLA end the second quarter on a 13-2 run, leading to a 10-point advantage at halftime.

Team Dynamics and Coach’s Strategy

Coach Cori Close has a wealth of talent at her disposal, with teammates like senior center Lauren Betts and guards Kiki Rice and Gianna Kneepkens also contributing to the Bruins’ impressive season. Betts returned to action after missing a previous game against Duke, although her performance was subdued, scoring only seven points.

As the game progressed, UCLA maintained control, with Jaquez and Kneepkens combining for crucial three-pointers that pushed the lead to 71-53 late in the third quarter. The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable, as fans rallied behind Jaquez, further cementing her legacy at the historic venue.

While Tennessee’s Barker managed to score 25 points and hit a buzzer-beater three-pointer, the Lady Volunteers struggled to keep pace with UCLA’s dynamic offense. Following a brief lead in the second quarter, Tennessee could not recover from UCLA’s relentless pressure and defensive prowess.

This victory marks UCLA’s eighth win of the season, improving their record to 8-1, rebounding from a previous defeat to No. 4 Texas. The Bruins have now claimed consecutive victories against ranked opponents, including Duke and Tennessee, showcasing their potential as serious contenders this season.

As the season unfolds, Jaquez’s performance will be under close scrutiny from scouts and fans alike. With her remarkable abilities and the support of a talented roster, UCLA is poised for a successful run in the collegiate basketball landscape.