The Bruins erased a 23‑point first‑half deficit to win 95‑94 in overtime, with Dent sinking a go‑ahead layup as the clock hit 1 second. Fans flooded the court as UCLA capped its biggest comeback since a 19‑point rally in 2019.
Eric Dailey Jr. led the Bruins with 20 points, while Tyler Bilodeau and Trent Perry added 18 and 17. Illinois’ Keaton Wagler scored 19, but the Bruins’ 18‑9 record improves to 15‑1 at home. UCLA will host USC next, while Illinois prepares to face Michigan.