Los Angeles – In a standout performance, UCLA men’s basketball player Donovan Dent demonstrated his skills in a recent game against USC, helping lift his team to a commanding victory. Dent scored 30 points, provided seven assists, and committed zero turnovers, showcasing the potential that head coach Mick Cronin had anticipated when Dent joined the program as a transfer.
During a scrimmage in late August, Dent caught everyone’s attention with his impressive dribbling and shooting skills. He excelled in creating driving angles, finishing plays with fluid spins, and effectively setting up his teammates for easy baskets. His ability to make all six of his 3-point shot attempts during that practice left a lasting impression on Cronin, who has been eager to see that level of performance translate to actual games.
For much of the season, however, “that guy” was absent. Dent struggled with injuries and lacked confidence, failing to replicate his summer form. After a series of inconsistent performances, the recent games against No. 10 Illinois and USC marked a turning point. In those two matchups, Dent amassed a total of 44 points, 23 assists, and maintained a perfect turnover ratio, reigniting hope among his teammates and coaches.
“He’s definitely in a better space,” said Shannon Sharpe, Dent’s trainer. “He’s playing more freely and looks like he’s having fun out there.” Sharpe attributed Dent’s earlier struggles to various factors, including increased competition, high expectations, and the challenge of adapting to a new system and teammates.
Dent has embraced Cronin’s encouragement to be aggressive on the court. By focusing on refining his shot form, he has worked to correct the issues affecting his shooting. Cronin highlighted the importance of balance in shooting, noting that any imbalance can lead to poor shooting outcomes.
As UCLA navigated through recent challenges, including a turbulent loss to Michigan State, the camaraderie within the locker room strengthened. “I think in the locker room, we’re at our highest point together as a team,” Dent remarked after an exhilarating buzzer-beater against Illinois.
UCLA’s gameplay has also improved with the return of Skyy Clark, who missed a month due to injury. The Bruins’ three-guard lineup has proven to be a tactical advantage, providing more space on the floor and allowing players like Dent to excel. “There’s so much more space on the floor,” Sharpe observed, noting that this configuration accelerates the pace of play, which suits Dent’s style.
With the Bruins now employing guard-to-guard screen actions, defenses face a dilemma between stopping Dent’s drives or covering Clark and Trent Perry on the perimeter. The offensive strategy has allowed players to capitalize on their strengths while making it easier for Dent to finish at the rim.
As the March tournament approaches, Cronin emphasized the importance of having key players perform at their best to succeed. “Nobody’s going anywhere in March without their best players playing well,” he said, clearly referencing Dent as a crucial component of the team’s aspirations.
“I’m hoping this groove continues,” Dent remarked. “This is the best time of the year to find something. I was struggling earlier in the season, so being in a groove right now would be huge for our team and huge for myself.”
UCLA’s next test comes against Minnesota on March 2, 2024, where they aim to build on their recent momentum. The game will take place at Williams Arena in Minneapolis at 11 a.m. PT. As the Bruins continue to find their rhythm, the hope is that Dent’s resurgence will propel them through the rest of the season and into March Madness.
