Key Insights from IU Basketball’s Victory at UCLA

Bassyonni

Published: February 1, 2026 11:15 AM ET

Indiana University (IU) basketball achieved a thrilling victory against UCLA, winning 98-97 on Saturday night at Pauley Pavilion. This marks their third consecutive win. The Hoosiers overcame challenges, particularly a late-game collapse, to secure a hard-fought triumph in double overtime.

Key Insights from IU Basketball’s Victory at UCLA

Nick Dorn Leads the Scoring

Nick Dorn emerged as a crucial player for IU. After entering the starting lineup due to an injury to Tayton Conerway, Dorn excelled in the second half. He scored 26 points in total, making half of IU’s 12 second-half field goals, including five 3-pointers. His 3-pointer late in the game extended IU’s lead to 10 points.

Dorn’s performance has been consistent, averaging 22.3 points over his last three games. His impressive shooting includes a 43.8 percent success rate on 3-pointers in Big Ten games, placing him seventh in the conference.

Reed Bailey’s Standout Performance

Senior forward Reed Bailey delivered his best game of the season, scoring 24 points off the bench over 28 minutes. He demonstrated exceptional efficiency, shooting 6-for-7 from the field and 12-for-13 from the free-throw line. Bailey’s versatility shone through as he grabbed six rebounds, provided five assists, and showcased solid defense.

This season, he has attempted more free throws than field goals, with a shooting percentage of 77.9 percent from the line. His all-around game earned him KenPom MVP honors for the second time this season.

Lamar Wilkerson Steps Up in Overtime

Lamar Wilkerson played a decisive role in the two overtimes. Despite earlier turnovers, he demonstrated resilience, scoring 10 of his total 24 points in overtime. His timely baskets were crucial, as he provided critical plays when IU needed them the most.

Tucker DeVries Contributes Beyond Scoring

Though scoring was low for Tucker DeVries, he found ways to assist the team. Logging 46 minutes, he scored nine points, made seven assists, and achieved his third consecutive game with 10 rebounds. His leadership and ability to step into different roles continue to bolster the team’s dynamic.

Trent Sisley’s Game-Winning Free Throw

Freshman Trent Sisley, despite reduced minutes in previous games, rose to the occasion. With just 1.5 seconds left in double overtime, Sisley executed a crucial play to draw a foul. He calmly converted a free throw, sealing the game for IU at 98-97.

Final Score: IU 98, UCLA 97
Location: Pauley Pavilion
Leading Scorers: Nick Dorn (26), Reed Bailey (24), Lamar Wilkerson (24)
Next Game: Scheduled for next week

This victory not only showcases IU’s resilience but also highlights the individual performances that contributed to their success. The Hoosiers look to build on this momentum as they continue their season.