Beavers Squarely in the Cross Hairs

The arrival of Oregon State today at Pauley Pavilion also brings a chance of redemption for the Bruins, who played terribly in the 65-63 loss to the Beavers on Jan. 7.

UCLA took 81 shots that night in Corvallis--41 more than Oregon State--but made only 28.4% and had nine assists against 14 turnovers.

“We’re looking forward to them a lot,” Bruin forward Travis Reed said. “I’m just glad we get to play them now, when we’re on a roll.”

Added guard Baron Davis: “We do have that payback.”

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Pacific 10 Conference brass had their rebuke of Coach Steve Lavin, John Wooden has his.

“I think we’re seeing so much animation from coaches today, more than we used to,” Wooden said when asked about Lavin’s behavior a week ago in Seattle. “I think Steve had indicated he is sorry because he is aware of his role as the coach of the team. The coach must show he’s in control if he wants the youngsters under him to show control as well. And I think he has said as much.”

When asked if it was an embarrassing moment for UCLA, the legendary former coach replied: “Somewhat. But I think it’s more embarrassing to Steve than anything else.”

Coming up: Thursday at Stanford.

TODAY

vs. Oregon State

12:30, Channel 7

* Site--Pauley Pavilion.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Bruins 16-5, 7-3; Beavers 11-8, 5-5.

* Update--Dan Gadzuric and Davis continue to be hampered by sore knees. Gadzuric played only eight minutes Thursday against Oregon and sat out the final 18:55. Davis wondered whether he would be able to play much in the second half, but went 18 minutes after intermission.

* Tickets--(310) 825-2946.