Mann Makes UCLA Decision an Official One

There was never much doubt that Olujimi Mann wanted to continue his basketball career at UCLA, but the 6-foot-4 junior from Santa Ana Valley just wanted to make it more official. Tuesday, Mann said he has orally committed to the Bruins.

“I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to go there,” Mann said. “I also considered Cal and Kentucky, but going to UCLA has always been a dream of mine.”

Mann, a second-team Times all-county selection this season and a first-team selection last season, said he has attended numerous UCLA basketball games this season and feels comfortable there. One of Mann’s summer league teammates and close friends, 6-10 senior center Jelani McCoy of San Diego St. Augustine, already has signed with the Bruins.

NCAA regulations prohibit UCLA from confirming any intentions to recruit Mann at this time. Mann said he plans to sign a letter of intent with the Bruins during the early period, which begins in November.

Mann’s grades are good enough, but his acceptance into the university hinges on passing the SAT or ACT exams. Mann said he plans to take those tests in May.