Xavier Booker from UCLA basketball shines as an injury substitute

UCLA’s Xavier Booker Shines in NCAA Tournament Opener

PHILADELPHIA — There seems to be no clear answer about who influenced Xavier Booker the most in his recent game.

His four blocks were certainly a vital part of UCLA’s defense in their NCAA Tournament opener.

“I really think it’s got to be Brock,” Booker mentioned late Friday.

As for his performance on the boards against UCF? Well, he managed to grab eight rebounds, matching his season-high—a fact that left Bruins coach Mick Cronin quite satisfied.

“I was really pleased with that,” he said.

And what about Booker’s commitment to guarding each Knights player effectively? UCLA guard Trent Perry had this to say: “Seeing him play like this tonight, especially in a game like this, was huge for us.”

Booker replaced Tyler Bilodeau, adding layers to his team’s strategy in their 75-71 win at Xfinity Mobile Arena. His contributions, particularly his rebounding and blocking in the final moments, were crucial. Together with backup Stephen Jamerson II, the big men collectively matched Bilodeau’s average points.

“I feel like I stayed true to my game,” Booker explained. “The coaches always want me to improve my rebounding. So, that’s where my focus is right now—on rebounding, defending, and blocking shots.”

Earlier that day, Booker learned that he would start due to Bilodeau experiencing discomfort in his injured knee, which resulted in Cronin deciding to hold him back.

Booker maintained his usual pregame ritual of listening to music to center himself. “Sometimes I get too hyped and start overthinking,” he admitted, adding that he aimed to keep things simple and just play.

He particularly excelled in the second half, connecting on four out of five shots, kicking off the scoring with a jump hook and a short jumper. He took advantage of the Knights’ smaller lineup, finishing with a dunk off a lob during a fast break and hitting a three-pointer afterward.

“We aimed for him,” Cronin noted. “We need that from him. He can definitely contribute offensively.”

Cronin even joked with Bilodeau that the Bruins’ defense might have fared better without him. Booker’s knack for exploiting the defense worked well for the team.

Despite uncertainties regarding Bilodeau’s availability for their second-round game against UW on Sunday, the Bruins can feel secure knowing Booker’s presence makes a considerable impact.