Mind Game Will Be Key for Bruins

There’s no question that UCLA has some of the best talent in the nation, but the young Bruins know they’ll have to play intelligently to have any hope of winning the Pacific 10 Conference title.

Point guard Baron Davis, though only a sophomore, knows that and also knows his teammates look to him for leadership. He plans to provide it tonight when Bruins open Pac-10 play against No. 6 Arizona.

“It’s going to be about our focus for the whole game,” said Davis, who has not had any problems with his surgically repaired left knee since being cleared to play Nov. 11. “It’s going to be how we play mentally.”

TONIGHT vs. No. 6 Arizona

7:30, FX

Site--Pauley Pavilion.

Radio--KXTA (1150).

Records--Bruins 8-2, Wildcats 8-0.

Update--Last season, Arizona opened Pac-10 play with an 87-75 victory over the Bruins at Tucson and went on to win the conference with a 17-1 record. Senior guard Jason Terry is averaging a team-high 20.4 points and 3.4 steals. Senior center A.J. Bramlett, who has roomed with Terry since their freshman year, is averaging 15 points and a team-leading 10.6 rebounds. . . . UCLA will be without third-leading scorer and rebounder JaRon Rush because of suspension and its best outside shooter, Brandon Loyd, is doubtful because of flu.