He later told reporters that he was “100 percent committed” to UCLA, even going so far as to tell ESPN “I am not going to talk to Indiana.” But Alford wasn’t absolutely definitive at the podium following the game.
“I’m at UCLA,” Alford said. “I don’t know a lot of people that want to leave UCLA. This is a pretty special place.”
Alford cited the No. 2 recruiting class in the country UCLA signed this year and the Mo Ostin Basketball Center, UCLA’s new practice facility set complete construction before next season, as two good reasons not to leave.
“I’ve worked awfully hard to be a part of that and I want to see that through,” Alford said of UCLA’s $35 million practice facility. “And we’ve got some special kids that are coming to join us. So, I’m very, very happy where I’m at and hopefully that will continue.”
Why Alford waited until after UCLA’s loss to confirm the he isn’t leaving for Indiana is curious.
He was first asked about the opening on March 16, the eve of the Bruins’ NCAA tournament opener. At that point, Alford was vague, stating that he loved UCLA, but choosing his words carefully so as not to deny a potential departure for Indiana.
He put everything to rest Friday night.