Returners and Transfers Bolster UCLA's Rise in the Big Ten
The Big Ten has long been synonymous with football, boasting the fifth-highest number of national championships in men's NCAA tournament history with 10 titles. The last time a Big Ten team tasted success in March was in 2002 when Maryland claimed the championship. However, the conference is undergoing a transformation, and the impact is evident in the men's basketball arena.
The merger between the Pac-12 and the Big Ten has brought a wealth of history and success to a conference that had been lacking in these aspects. The results are impressive: eight teams dancing in the tournament, with six behind the SEC, setting a new record for the most teams from a single conference. Four Big Ten teams made it to the Sweet Sixteen, marking a significant resurgence.
This resurgence is further solidified by the 2026 KenPom rankings, which showcase seven teams in the top 25 net rankings. UCLA men's basketball plays a pivotal role in this conference revival, currently ranked 10th, the third-highest-ranked Big Ten team. With a strong foundation, they are poised for a breakout year after their initial season in their new conference home.
The Bruins' strength lies in their returning players, including three projected starters: senior guard Skyy Clark, senior forward Tyler Bilodeau, and junior guard/forward Eric Dailey Jr. Sophomore guard Trent Perry is also a key contributor, often among the first players to come off the bench and the team's third primary ball handler. Coach Mick Cronin highlighted the importance of returning players, emphasizing the value of experience in today's basketball landscape.
The team is further bolstered by Donovan Dent, a preseason All-Big Ten selection and senior guard. Dent, a former Mountain West Player of the Year, has been a topic of conversation at UCLA since his transfer from New Mexico in March. He is a top contender for the Naismith Player of the Year, according to Fox Sports, and his presence can significantly enhance the Bruin offense, making it a formidable force on the court.
Despite Dent's impressive status, Cronin is pushing him to reach even greater heights. He acknowledges Dent's offensive talent and his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. However, Cronin also reminds Dent that the offensive burden doesn't solely rest on his shoulders, highlighting the contributions of Clark, who had a strong finish to the previous season.
Clark, who struggled offensively early in the season, found his rhythm as the campaign progressed. He became a reliable contributor, especially in crucial moments, showcasing the confidence instilled in him by his teammates and coaching staff. This transformation from a new team member to a confident contributor is a testament to the team's cohesion and support system.
Travel, however, remains a significant challenge for the Bruins. Three of their first eight Big Ten games will be on the road, including trips to the Midwest and the Mid-Atlantic. Cronin and Bilodeau acknowledge that travel will impact the team's performance, but they view it as an opportunity to prepare for the ultimate goal: March success.
In summary, the Big Ten's resurgence in men's basketball is a testament to the conference's strategic realignment. UCLA's strong returning players, led by Clark, Bilodeau, and Dent, are key to this success. Despite travel challenges, the team is poised for a breakout year, and the conference's future looks bright.
