How Three Crucial Numbers Define UCLA’s Young Season

UCLA has quickly announced itself as one of the top teams in college basketball.

Now ranked No. 9, the Bruins have pole position in the Big Ten right behind Michigan State (which just beat Duke) and Illinois. Maybe UCLA catches up — but even if it doesn't, it still has a chance to make some major noise on the national stage this year. There are three key statistics that support a Bruins breakout.

Boards and Bombs

UCLA averages 47 rebounds per game (second in the Big Ten). Those extra chances really matter, especially because the Bruins have the best three-point shooting percentage in the Big Ten. UCLA is the only Big Ten team to hit above 39% from long distance (and it hits 41.4%). Jaylen…