Lauren Betts' mom sleeps "like a baby" knowing her UCLA star daughter is "one of the best" players in the country

Lauren Betts delivered an extraordinary performance Sunday night as No. 1 UCLA secured an 82-67 win over No. 8 Maryland. The junior forward set a career-high with 33 points, continuing to establish herself as a dominant force in women’s college basketball. With this victory, the Bruins advanced their undefeated record to 20-0 overall and 8-0 in Big Ten play and marked their 19th consecutive win by double digits.

While Betts’ record-setting night was celebrated by fans and teammates, her mother, Michelle Betts, couldn’t contain her pride. Social media quickly captured the family’s celebratory mood after the game. One post summed it up perfectly:

"I know @Michelle_Betts_ sleeps wonderful at night knowing her child is one of the best in women’s college basketball. I know that’s right."

Momma Betts retweeted the post, adding her enthusiastic response:

"Like a baby! So happy for my kid and her team!"

She then followed up with another tweet, just to put more emphasis on the topic.

"Like a baby!!!! Great team! Wonderful and supportive coaches! Happy and confident kid!"

Maryland had no answer for Betts, who dominated the paint from the opening tip. She excelled at converting low-post opportunities, scoring 14 points in the first quarter alone and 24 by halftime. Her performance broke her previous career-best of 31 points when she knocked down two late free throws in the fourth quarter.

Not only was her scoring performance exceptional, but her efficiency was historic. Betts shot an incredible 93.3% from the field, going 14-of-15, breaking a school record previously set by Denise Curry in 1979. Beyond her scoring, she contributed seven rebounds and four blocked shots, elevating her overall impact on the game.

The Bruins’ win was yet another statement victory for a team that has dominated opponents all season. UCLA’s performance left Maryland still searching for a win against a top-ranked opponent, a feat they haven’t achieved since their 2006 NCAA semifinal victory over North Carolina.

UCLA’s remarkable season and Lauren Betts showcasing leadership

The Bruins’ 2023-24 season has been nothing short of spectacular. They have dominated conference opponents with an average winning margin of 19.8 points and have yet to trail in the second half of any Big Ten game.

For Maryland, Sunday’s loss continued a tough streak against top-ranked teams, with their last victory over a No. 1 opponent coming nearly two decades ago. Meanwhile, UCLA’s players have thrived under the spotlight, and Betts has become the cornerstone of their success.

Just days before the Maryland game, Betts led UCLA to an 84-66 win over Rutgers with another dominant display, posting 25 points, 13 rebounds, and five blocks. Over her last three games, she has accumulated 21 blocked shots, emphasizing her defensive impact. Her ability to control both ends of the court has been crucial for UCLA’s perfect record this season.

The team also recently defeated No. 25 Baylor in the inaugural Coretta Scott King Classic. Despite being on the road for nearly a week, the Bruins showed no signs of fatigue, continuing to dismantle high-quality opponents.

UCLA’s remarkable run has come amid challenging circumstances. Wildfires in Los Angeles disrupted the start of the academic semester, forcing classes to be held remotely. UCLA will take a brief break before hosting Minnesota on February 2.