The Los Angeles Dodgers showed their support for the UCLA men’s basketball team ahead of their Final Four matchup with Gonzaga by turning Dodger Stadium blue and gold and incorporating Bruins graphics on video boards.
Banc of California Stadium, Ferris wheel at Santa Monica Pier, SoFi Stadium, City Hall and the US Bank Tower also were illuminated in UCLA’s trademark blue and gold on Friday night. They have put together nothing short of a remarkable run during March Madness as a First Four team.
With multiple upsets already complete, the Bruins now face their toughest challenge yet in a Gonzaga team that is undefeated and many expect to win the championship. The Bulldogs are coming off a dominant win against the USC Trojans, who had grown into a bit of a media darling.
Former UCLA pitcher Trevor Bauer also offered his support by recording a video message.
Hey @UCLAMBB, we have a message for you from @BauerOutage himself.
Good luck tomorrow in the #FinalFour! #GoBruins | @Dodgers pic.twitter.com/eH1Uh60FLf
— UCLA Baseball (@UCLABaseball) April 2, 2021
The city is turning blue and gold! Shout out to the @Dodgers for supporting @UCLAMBB! #GoBruins | #FinalFour pic.twitter.com/ExOsF1W7qP
— UCLA Athletics (@UCLAAthletics) April 3, 2021
The Bruins’ win to reach their first Final Four since 2008 came on the same night as the Dodgers wrapping up the exhibition Freeway Series at Dodger Stadium.
“Dieter Ruehle played that in the eighth or ninth inning, the UCLA fight song, so I assumed that’s what it meant,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said after the game.
“Couldn’t be happier for UCLA, Coach Cronin, the players. Getting back to the Final Four, where they belong, what a special year. They played their tails off and he did a great job coaching.”
Dodger Stadium used to pay respects
The Dodgers have regularly used their ballpark to show support and pay their respects, including for healthcare workers last year and in keeping the lights on to celebrate the life of Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda.
The team also painted a No. 2 in center field and on the pitcher’s mound, and fans dropped off flowers and memorabilia at the “Welcome to Dodger Stadium” sign on Vin Scully Ave.
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