The third installment of our summer spotlight series turns its lens on the UCLA men’s basketball program, focusing on senior forward Eric Dailey Jr., a player whose college career has already spanned three seasons and over a hundred games.
Dailey has carved out a reputation as a reliable scorer and rebounder, averaging 11.6 points and 5.8 boards last year, and he enters his final year with the Bruins with a clear ambition to become the team’s primary catalyst.
A Journey With USA Basketball
Earlier this year Dailey traveled to Santiago, Chile, to join the USA Basketball 3×3 squad that secured a spot in the FIBA 3×3 U23 World Cup. The competition format pits teams in six stops, each comprising three back‑to‑back matches that run for ten minutes or until a side reaches 21 points.
In the final stop, Dailey’s 10‑point burst helped the United States defeat the Cayman Islands, capping a tournament in which he posted an average of 6.8 points per game. His participation follows a storied path that includes gold medals with the U18 3×3 World Cup and the U18 Americas, as well as a stint on the U19 Men’s World Cup roster in Hungary.
For Dailey, wearing the USA jersey is more than a personal milestone; it is a continuation of a relationship that began in youth camps and has grown into a source of pride. He says the experience fuels his desire to bring that same intensity to Westwood.
Coach Savino’s Praise
Associate head coach Darren Savino has highlighted Dailey’s work ethic, deep familiarity with UCLA’s culture, and his role as a mentor to younger teammates. “He’s the guy we can count on to set the tone every day,” Savino remarked, underscoring the trust placed in the senior forward.
Beyond the hardwood, Dailey’s leadership extends to community outreach and academic commitment, traits that align with UCLA’s broader mission. As the Bruins prepare for the upcoming season, his blend of experience and drive positions him as a cornerstone for a program eager to rebuild its competitive edge.