UCLA coach Ben Howland said the experience of losing to Florida the last two years in the Final Four should help the Bruins.
“The guys that returned from the previous couple of years have had that tough loss against Florida both times, and it was obviously very disappointing,” Howland said. “We were beat by a great team both years. Florida was just special.
“I think that the experience that the guys have played in those two (games) have gained, along with Russell (Westbrook) and James (Keefe), really helps this team.”
Monthly Archives: March 2008
FB — Lopez leaves
Bob Lopez, UCLAs director of football operations the last five years under former coach Karl Dorrell, resigned and is expected to take a job at another school.
Post-game theme
In the locker room, UCLA players were talking about losing in the Final Four the last two seasons, and how they weren’t going there this time to come home without a title.
“It definitely left a sour taste in our mouth,” UCLA wing Josh Shipp said. “We definitely have unfinished business. It would be great if we can accomplish this goal.”
MOP Love
UCLA freshman Kevin Love was named the West Region’s Most Outstanding Player after scoring 19 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Bruins guards Daren Collison and Russell Westbrook were named to the All-Region team, as were WKU guard Tyrone Brazelton and Xavier forward Josh Duncan.
UCLA off to San Antonio
The Bruins are in the Final Four for the third consecutive season. So much for this matchup. UCLA beat Xavier 76-57. UCLA will play the winner of tomorrow’s Memphis-Texas game. Kevin Love had another incredible game with 19 points and 10 rebounds and Darren Collison had 19 points.