by Kenneth Sawhill

Created on: March 11, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

UCLA will win the 2008 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship. Why? Tradition. Kevin Love. Tenacious team defense. Darren Collison. Need more be said?

UCLA will post its 12th championship banner at Pauley at the end of this basketball season. Coach Howland has got the team ready, although they do seem to "hit the wall" right before the PAC 10 tournament. They do need to rest the legs a bit. However, they will be the number one seed in the west, playing the opening round close by in Anaheim. The west regionals will be in Phoenix, also to their advantage. Pending any unforeseen slipups, hello San Antonio and the Final Four!

One troubling aspect to the season is the fact that the Bruins have had to play "from behind" recently, particularly, the Stanford and Cal games. This tendency could present a problem and stumbling block in a "one and out" tournament. (It's also what makes March "madness" for basketball junkies!) In addition, in the Stanford and Cal games, there were questionable calls in each of these games, however, given the break they got from the referees, the Bruins took advantage of the opportunity given and didn't look back.

Another possible snag on their way to another title is the potential problem with outside shooting. Unfortunately, Josh Shipp has been clanking the three point attempts he has been trying, and his confidence has to be wavering. However, the "miracle" over the backboard, albeit, slightly "illegal" shot he made against Cal may break the ice as far as his recent inability to get the ball to go down. Not enough has been said about Darren Collison's ability to hit the timely three in key situations either. He will not allow this team to lose.

On a recent sports talk show in L.A., the commentators were offering the opinion that other more "naturally gifted" players than Kevin Love will be of more interest to NBA scouts. Please! This opinion was proffered, despite the fact that Love has demonstrated his poise beyond his years, and his fundamental understanding and ability to do all the things on a basketball court that any coach, college, or pro, could possibly want from a player. No college center has made the outlet pass better since Bill Walton or Wes Unseld.

Darren Collison and Russell Westbrook make the best backcourt/guard tandem in the country. The Bruins have the will to win and the confidence that they can win. They have been tested rigorously this season, and have come through beautifully.

If you don't think this team worthy of putting up another banner in Westwood, and paying homage to the legacy of "The Coach", John Wooden, then check the sports section of your local paper, April 8th, 2008.

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