For the third year in a row the UCLA Bruins have advanced to the Final Four. A feat that has been accomplished since John Wooden did it (with a little help from Sam Gilbert) in the early 70’s. Ben Howland Bruins are one of the toughest defensive teams in the country and Xavier felt the full brunt of it. They are relentless on the defensive end. Tonight they held Xavier to 36% shooting that included 4-19 from behind the line.
I have talked about Michael Beasley being the best player all year in comparison with Tyler Hansborough. I am dead wrong. I should have been comparing him to Kevin Love. Love’s ability to change the game on both ends of the floor might make him the best player in college basketball. Not only does he score in the post and rebound (19 & 10), but he is a presence whenever someone comes inside on the defensive end. His overall play tonight was spectacular. He made three’s, doled out assists, rebounded and would have sold popcorn during timeouts if he was allowed.
The Bruins are healthy and for the first time in three years are a real threat to win it all. With Love, they are a more complete team than the previous two squads. Teams must be strong down the middle to win in any sport. Think about it. Good catcher, pitcher, centerfielder. Quarterback, linebacker, safety. In basketball, with Love in the middle and Collison at the point the Bruins win every match-up. It will take a tremendous effort to derail the Bruins.
