On UCLA’s defense heading into the preseason.
“Defensively, I think we’re on track. It’s about continuing to run well and getting the kids who are going to be newcomers to it – guys like Aaron Hester – to get into it.”

On UCLA’s difficult schedule:
“I don’t know if you can ever look and say it’s going to be an easy schedule at UCLA. We play nine Pac-10 games. That in itself is more difficult than what anyone else does. And to go to Tennessee is not what you’d draw up if you’re trying to get yourself into the post season.”

On how he’s changed since last year:
“I’m every bit as upbeat, every bit as positive, but I know much more about what needs to be done, having now taken a lap through the conference. You only have yourself to compare against after you’ve gone through spring practice. Having gone through a season and seen all the programs, I’ve got a good idea of where we stack up.”