UCLA vs. Oregon State: What to Watch

Oregon State (10-6, 0-3)
Tipoff: 6 p.m., Thursday, Pauley Pavilion
TV/Radio: ESPNU, AM-570

At a glance: Craig Robinson is a man known less for his coaching acumen than for his being Barack Obama’s brother-in-law. Through his first four years in Corvallis, the Beavers have hovered around mediocrity, finishing with 18, 14, 10 and 21 wins. They made the postseason three times, but only to the College Basketball Invitational. Only once have they won even eight conference games.

This year’s Oregon State squad isn’t exactly breaking the pattern, though injuries haven’t helped. Center Angus Brandt, a floor-stretching 3-point threat who also averaged 11.3 points and 8.5 rebounds, tore his ACL in November. At Pauley Pavilion, the Beavers will also be without forward Eric Moreland, who is serving the end of a three-game suspension for a violation of team rules. The 6-foot-10 sophomore is sixth in the nation with 11.1 rebounds per game, and his absence Continue reading “UCLA vs. Oregon State: What to Watch” »