Xavier coach Sean Miller said he could tell UCLA is tested when it comes to Elite Eight games, and the Bruins’ talent level did hurt, either.
“They really at a way about them, as if they’d been there before” Miller said. “Very patient on ofense, don’t crack easily, don’t flinch. Really stick to what makes them good.”
Miller lauded the play of UCLA point guard Darren Collison and center Kevin Love.
“You appreciate (Collison) a lot more when you play against him (rather) than watching him on t.v.” Miller said. “At the end of the (shot) clock, he just is incredible. He can make a shot himself. He makes his teammates better. And he has that dagger ability. When they need it, bang, he delivers.
“And then Love, obviously, is that extra special player that maybe UCLA hasn’t had in the past that could be the difference for them now because everything really starts and stops with him. He is so mobile for a big guy. It amazes me, to see him run around like he does and not foul, and plays the minutes that he plays. Very unique.”