Nikola Kusturica's All-Around Performance Dominates UCLA's Exhibition Win
The 17-year-old freshman showcased a mature and impactful game, drawing comparisons to Kobe Bryant in his Pauley Pavilion debut.
UCLA freshman Nikola Kusturica delivered a comprehensive performance in his Pauley Pavilion debut, leading the No. 22 Bruins to a decisive 100-53 exhibition victory over Cal Baptist on Wednesday night. The 17-year-old Serbian star stuffed the stat sheet, recording 10 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals, and 2 blocks in just 24 minutes, with zero turnovers.
Kusturica's hustle and defensive intensity were particularly noted by head coach Mick Cronin. "I like to be a hustle guy, always," Kusturica said after the game. In one notable sequence, he dove for a loose ball along the baseline, secured it, and passed it out for an open 3-pointer, later drawing a foul on a putback attempt. Cronin highlighted Kusturica's relentless effort, even comparing his defensive intensity on screens to that of Kobe Bryant.
"He’s going to have games with 35 [points]," Cronin said. "And he’s going to have games like tonight where he’s clearly a dominant player without making a lot of shots." Kusturica's maturity and two-season eligibility before being NBA draft-eligible in 2028 were also seen as significant assets for the Bruins.
The Bruins' overall performance addressed weaknesses from the previous season. UCLA outrebounded Cal Baptist 57-29 and held them to 29.5 percent shooting from the field, while accumulating 13 steals and 5 blocks. Forward Eric Dailey Jr. led all scorers with 25 points, hitting 7 of 9 three-pointers. Center Xavier Booker nearly recorded a double-double with 8 points and 9 rebounds, and freshman Joe Philon III added 13 points and 7 rebounds off the bench.
Despite the dominant exhibition win, Cronin identified shot selection as an area needing improvement before the Bruins' season opener against Arizona on November 2. "Our effort was tremendous, team attitude has been great," Cronin stated. "I look forward to coaching these guys every day because they’re very, very mature. They understand that coaching and teaching helps them be better players."