UCLA responds to Cronin’s challenge in 40-point blowout

You want effort?

- By BEN BoLcH

DAMIAN DOVARGANES Associated Press SKYY CLARK, stealing the ball from Presbyterian's Josh Pickett, had a game-high 22 points Friday night.

Trent Perry followed one sneaky steal with another in a span of less than a minute.

You want defensive intensity?

Xavier Booker stepped in front of his man, rising to block a dunk.

You want offensive efficiency?

Skyy Clark blew by one helpless defender after another on the way to repeated driving layups.

Three days after Mick Cronin used a lineup change to challenge his players to be tougher, to play some defense, to show they cared, the UCLA Bruins provided a retort.

Hey, coach, take a look at us now.

Bringing the intensity and building a massive early cushion thanks to strong offense and rebounding, the No. 19 Bruins unloaded any lingering frustrations during an 86-46 victory over Presbyterian on Friday night at Pauley Pavilion.

“The last couple of games, our team attitude has been something I could be proud of,” Cronin said. “It’s amazing how guys play better when they have the right attitude and the right approach.”