UCLA slips away from pesky Eagles

Patriot League champ American pushes third-seeded Bruins

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LOS ANGELES — When pesky American University made a run, UCLA turned to its leaders to counter each time and finally the Bruins were able fend off the Eagles and advance.

Monique Billings scored 20 points and had 10 rebounds, Kennedy Burke added 15 points to lead No. 3 seed UCLA to a 71-60 win over 14th-seeded AU in the first round of the women’s NCAA Tournament on Saturday.

“We took hard shots at first but then we found easier shots and were able to finish,” said Billings, who made 7-of-17 shots and had three steals. “I had three people on me and that gave others opportunities. We all have to do a better job rebounding.” Burke also said UCLA needs to pick up their game. “Today wasn’t our best game, we made too many mental errors,” Burke said. “We have to correct that.”

Jordin Canada had 10 points and 11 assists for the Bruins (25-7), who advance to the second round.

“We’ve been here before, we need to slow it down at times and keep our composure,” Canada said.

Cecily Carl led American (26-7) with 22 points and 10 rebounds and Elina Koskimies added 13 points and Maria Liddane scored 12 points. AU outrebounded UCLA in the game 36-33.

After the Eagles took an early lead to start the game, the Bruins countered with a 22-3 run over the final 4:33 of the opening quarter to build a double-digit advantage and take control. Billings scored 10 points during the UCLA surge.