Opener a Snap for Freshman Kapono

The much-anticipated college career of freshman Jason Kapono began Tuesday with 16 points, seven rebounds, two steals and no butterflies.

“What makes him unusual is his poise and composure for his age,” Bruin Coach Steve Lavin said.

Kapono’s game already has a veteran’s maturity, filled with a combination of intelligence (making the right pass, etc.) and talent. The latter comes with well-rounded skills, as witnessed by his debut numbers.

“I wasn’t nervous at all because I’ve been playing with these guys since late June,” Kapono said, referring to Tuesday’s victory over Fairfield and the countless pickup games and practices that came before. “The game is the game, whether it’s in Pauley Pavilion or some dirt court in Compton. Two rims, five on five, and you toss it up.”