UCLA dedicated the first play of its game against New Mexico State Saturday to Nick Pasquale, a redshirt freshman wide receiver who was killed after being hit by a car two weeks ago.
The Bruins received the opening kick and returned it 70 yards to the New Mexico State 16. Jordon James gained five yards on the first play despite the team playing 10 on 11. He fumbled on his next rush, but that didn’t ruin the gesture.
UCLA beat Nebraska on the road last weekend and dedicated the victory to Pasquale. This was UCLA’s first home game since Pasquale’s death.
In addition to playing with 10 men on the field for their first play, UCLA presented a framed jersey to Pasquale’s parents after the first quarter:
Pasquale’s number 36 was also painted onto the Rose Bowl turf, as seen in the image above. UCLA handed out rally towels with Pasquale’s No. 36 printed on them to fans for the game.
Pasquale was further honored with a moment of silence held before the game.
Nothing can replace the loss of a son or teammate, but UCLA, led by Jim Mora, is doing what it can to ease the pain of Pasquale’s family and teammates.
Photo: Twitter/UCLA Football 1
