UCLA Women Advance in Volleyball

The No. 1-ranked UCLA women’s volleyball team defeated Gonzaga, 15-6, 15-7, 15-12, Saturday night at UCLA in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

The Bruins, 32-1 and winners of 29 in a row, were led by sophomore outside hitter Natalie Williams, who had 13 kills. Junior outside hitter Jenny Evans had 11 kills and 10 digs.

UCLA earned the right to host the NCAA West Regional next weekend at UCLA’s Wooden Center. In the semifinals Friday night, beginning at 6:30, UCLA will face New Mexico (22-6), a winner over Pepperdine Friday, followed by Stanford (26-3) against San Diego State (24-11). The title game will be Saturday night at 7:30.