PHILADELPHIA — Trent Perry celebrated with a dance after successfully sinking a step-back three-pointer, even over a team manager.
During an informal shooting practice held the day before the NCAA Tournament, the UCLA guard positioned himself in a corner, taking pass after pass and consistently converting most of his three-point attempts. He reacted with open-mouthed astonishment when one shot failed to fall through the rim.
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It appears the Bruins’ emerging standout player is currently achieving nearly everything he attempts.
UCLA’s Trent Perry (0) has made the most of his opportunity to play in a three-guard lineup. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
With Perry now a key component of the three-guard starting lineup, his team has become a trendy choice to exceed expectations based on its seeding in the upcoming tournament. UCLA, seeded seventh, will first face 10th-seeded UCF in the opening round this Friday at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
“This particular event is significant,” Perry informed The California Post on Thursday afternoon from his locker, adding, “and aspirations can become reality.”
Considering his recent success, the exceptional sophomore might already feel as though he’s experiencing a dream.
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After stepping into the starting lineup midseason due to Skyy Clark’s injury, Perry exploded for 30 points against Penn State just a week later and has maintained his high performance even after Clark’s return last month.
During the Big Ten Tournament, when point guard Donovan Dent suffered a calf injury against Purdue, Perry assumed control of the team’s offense, contributing nine assists in a game that nearly resulted in an upset victory over the Boilermakers.
“Basketball is simply basketball,” Perry stated, “and particularly with this squad, I’m willing to do whatever is required to secure a win — whether that means playing point guard or shooting guard — so it was quite enjoyable to be on the court.”
Perry’s versatile skills, including his knack for hitting three-pointers and crucial free throws, driving to the basket, and assisting open teammates, have made him an essential player for the Bruins.
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He now ranks as the team’s third-highest scorer, contributing an average of 12.7 points per game, along with shooting 41.2% from beyond the arc. Opponents should avoid fouling him in the closing moments of a game. Exhibiting complete composure, Perry successfully converted all six free throws in the last 36 seconds of the Big Ten Tournament last week, helping his team secure a win against Michigan State.
“I’m not surprised,” remarked David Rebibo, Perry’s former coach at Harvard-Westlake High. “It was always a question of timing, not possibility, much like his high school progression. Once everything aligned for him, it was clear he would become exceptional.”
UCLA guard Trent Perry (0) has become the team’s third-leading scorer this season, averaging 12.7 points per game. AP
His continued presence in the starting five, even after Clark’s return last month, has improved shot spacing for teammates, created more driving opportunities, and accelerated the Bruins’ offensive tempo. UCLA (23-11), which previously struggled to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, solidified its position by winning six of its final eight contests.
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Perry represents the most recent talent to evolve into an NBA prospect under the guidance of Cronin and his coaching team. Cronin noted that Perry’s openness to instruction has significantly sped up his progress.
“I commend him entirely because coaching is most effective for individuals with a positive disposition,” Cronin remarked. “There are some players you could coach for two decades, and they wouldn’t evolve.”
Perry’s transformation from a freshman averaging 3.7 points to a player capable of leading the team has led his coach to actively advocate for his return next season. Cronin has repeatedly expressed his desire for Perry to remain with the team for over a month.
Although numerous elements will influence Perry’s choice — such as the potential increase in his NIL compensation — the Bruins seem well-positioned to keep him.
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“I am aware that Trent holds a great affection for UCLA and his teammates,” Rebibo stated. “He respects his coaches, and I know he’s genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of a strong performance in the NCAA Tournament. However, I also recognize that his parents reside in LA, and I believe being a Bruin holds significance for him, as does achieving victory. With all these factors considered — while I can’t predict the future — I know he’s content with his current situation, and he aims to win.”
Particularly on college basketball’s most prominent platform.
Perry recounted that as a child, he often imagined having his “one shining moment” during the NCAA Tournament, specifically sinking a game-winning shot in the dying seconds.
“Absolutely,” he responded, “and if the shot doesn’t go in, you have to extend the game a bit.”
It appears that time, much like other aspects, is favoring him, with numerous significant March moments still ahead.