Tyger Campbell what he’s learned about Pac-12 roadtrips over four years

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh02/08/23

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Dating back to the Final Four run during the 2021 Tournament, UCLA has been one of the best teams in the country. Much of that has been due to head coach Mick Cronin having one of the more experienced squads in the Pac-12, lead by point guard Tyger Campbell. And when you are considered a top team, you are able to win away from your home arena.

No matter what conference you are on, playing games on the road can be tough. Having somebody on your team such as Campbell can ease the challenge though. The point guard said by now, he knows what to expect when playing away from Pauley Pavilion as a seasoned vet.

“Every team is dangerous at home,” Campbell said. “It doesn’t matter who it is or who they have. Every team is ready to play at home in front of their home crowd, get a win. Going on the road for four years now, I am more prepared because I have played there before.

“I know what to expect with the players, the crowd, and the coach. It’s really just try to not take advantage of these games. They’re all really important.”

UCLA has two losses on the road this season against Arizona and USC. Only one game during the non-conference slate was a true road game, getting a win against Maryland back in mid-December. Overall, the Bruins are 5-2 as the visiting team.

When asked if any of the courts stand out to him within the conference, Oregon was the only one who got a mention from Campbell. It’s an unusual design in Eugene, with a few designs being implemented.

“Oregon’s floor is pretty dope, crazy,” Campbell said. “Every gym is the same to me at this point. We’ve played at so many different ones. Big arenas to smaller ones. So, it doesn’t really affect me.”

Campbell will have a chance to see Oregon’s court again as UCLA has a three-day trip in the Pacific Northwest upcoming. Before facing off against the Ducks on Saturday, Campbell will lead his team against Oregon State on Thursday night.

Just four road games remain for the Bruins this season before entering tournament play. Confidence is key when playing conference games away from home. Campbell’s experience certainly helps as UCLA battles for a Pac-12 championship.