25 Facts About Washington Vs. UCLA

Washington vs. UCLA: A Storied Rivalry

The rivalry between the University of Washington Huskies and the University of California, Los Angeles Bruins has been a thrilling spectacle for sports fans. From football to basketball, these two schools have a rich history of competition. Here are some fascinating facts about this storied rivalry.

1. The first football game between Washington and UCLA took place in 1932. Washington won that inaugural match 16-6.

2. UCLA and Washington have faced off over 70 times in football, making it one of the most frequent matchups in the Pac-12 Conference.

3. The 1990 game between Washington and UCLA is memorable for its high score. Washington triumphed with a 54-14 victory.

4. In 1998, UCLA defeated Washington 36-24, marking one of the highest-scoring games in their rivalry history.

5. The 2000 season saw Washington clinch a dramatic 35-28 victory over UCLA, contributing to their eventual Rose Bowl appearance.

Basketball Battles

Basketball games between Washington and UCLA are equally intense. Both teams have a history of producing NBA talent and thrilling games.

6. The first basketball game between these two schools occurred in 1937. UCLA won that game 50-39.

7. UCLA holds the record for the longest winning streak in this rivalry, with 25 consecutive victories from 1967 to 1979.

8. Washington's biggest win against UCLA in basketball came in 2004, with a 95-86 victory.

9. In 2006, Washington ended UCLA's 14-game winning streak with a 70-67 victory.

10. The 2011 Pac-12 Tournament saw Washington defeat UCLA 69-51, securing their spot in the NCAA Tournament.

Memorable Moments

Beyond the scores and stats, the rivalry has produced unforgettable moments that fans still talk about.

11. In 1984, Washington's football team pulled off a stunning upset against UCLA, winning 16-7 despite being heavy underdogs.

12. The 1992 basketball game featured a buzzer-beater by Washington's Mark Pope, leading to a 62-60 victory over UCLA.

13. UCLA's 1995 football team, led by quarterback Cade McNown, defeated Washington 24-20 in a game that helped propel them to a Pac-10 Championship.

14. In 2001, Washington's football team won a nail-biter against UCLA, 27-24, with a last-minute field goal.

15. The 2018 basketball game saw UCLA overcome a 13-point deficit to beat Washington 74-53, showcasing their resilience.

Coaching Legends

Both schools have been led by legendary coaches who have left a lasting impact on the rivalry.

16. Don James, Washington's football coach from 1975 to 1992, had a 10-5 record against UCLA.

17. UCLA's basketball coach John Wooden, who led the team from 1948 to 1975, had a remarkable 38-2 record against Washington.

18. Rick Neuheisel, who coached both Washington and UCLA football teams, had a unique perspective on the rivalry.

19. Lorenzo Romar, Washington's basketball coach from 2002 to 2017, had several memorable victories against UCLA.

20. Jim Harrick, who coached UCLA basketball from 1988 to 1996, led the Bruins to a national championship in 1995, defeating Washington along the way.

Fan Traditions

The fans of both schools add to the excitement with their unique traditions and spirited support.

21. Washington's "Husky Stadium" is known for its deafening noise, often referred to as the "Greatest Setting in College Football."

22. UCLA's "Pauley Pavilion" is a historic venue that has hosted numerous thrilling basketball games against Washington.

23. The "Victory Bell" is a trophy awarded to the winner of the UCLA vs. USC football game, but Washington fans have their own tradition of ringing the "Victory Bell" after defeating UCLA.

24. Washington's "Dawg Pack" student section is famous for its enthusiastic support during basketball games against UCLA.

25. UCLA's "Den" student section is equally passionate, creating an electric atmosphere during home games against Washington.

Final Thoughts on Washington vs. UCLA

Washington vs. UCLA isn't just a game; it's a clash of history, talent, and strategy. Washington's Huskies bring a rich legacy, while UCLA's Bruins boast a powerhouse of athleticism. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs, making each encounter unpredictable and thrilling. Fans from both sides eagerly anticipate these matchups, knowing they’ll witness top-tier college football. Whether you're rooting for Washington's strong defense or UCLA's dynamic offense, one thing's for sure: this rivalry never disappoints. Keep an eye on key players and game-changing moments, as they often define the outcome. So, next time these two teams face off, grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the show. College football doesn't get much better than this!