Victory's sweet, celebration short as UCLA advances in NCAA tournament

SAN DIEGO — This was a big hurdle for UCLA.

Sure, a bigger one looms on the horizon. But the Bruins were basking in the moment . . . sort of.

UCLA's 77-60 victory over Stephen F. Austin at Viejas Arena was predictable. The Lumberjacks may have won 29 consecutive games, but they had an expiration date. It was Sunday.

The feel-good story was gone. This was the Bruins' moment. Their next one is in the South Regional semifinals in Memphis, Tenn., against top-ranked Florida.

The Bruins made it past the tournament's first weekend for the first time since 2008. Emotions transitioned in the locker room just about as fast UCLA did on the court.

Players were ecstatic and businesslike.

"We're putting UCLA back on the map," forward David Wear said.

Then again . . .

"There is no celebrating," Jordan Adams said. "We haven't done anything yet."

Or . . .

"This means a lot to everyone in here," guard Norman Powell said.

Yet . . .

"They don't hang Sweet 16 banners in Pauley Pavilion," guard Kyle Anderson said.

The postgame whirlwind mirrored the one the Bruins performed on the court. UCLA (28-8) was hardly at its best. It didn't have to be.

The Lumberjacks (32-3) had pulled off a stunning comeback against Virginia Commonwealth on Friday. But they were clearly out of their league Sunday.

Adams scored 19 points, Powell 16 and Anderson 15. The Bruins shot 54.7% from the field and turned the ball over only three times.

If UCLA fans had any lingering worries at halftime, with the Bruins leading 42-32, Powell eased their minds at the start of the second half.

"Coach told me to start dunking the ball," Powell said.

No need for Steve Alford to tell him twice.

Powell started with a one-hander, going from flat-footed to above the rim. His next trick was to burst upcourt, stutter-step, dribble behind the back and lay in a scoop shot. The finale was to swoop in for a two-handed dunk.

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