UCLA-USC REPORT

UCLA may make another change at shooting guard tonight, along with the change it hopes to make in intensity, compared to the first game against the Trojans.

Coach Steve Lavin said after practice Tuesday that he has not decided but that there is a “good chance” Ryan Bailey will replace Billy Knight as the Bruins try to end a three-game losing streak and avoid being swept by USC for the first time since 1992. Knight has started the last three games.

Every move will be magnified as the Bruins face the possibility of spending the rest of the season--the second half of Pacific 10 play and the nonconference game Sunday at Syracuse--on the bubble. They will get the first test of their nerves, a new concept to a team loaded with young players, against an opponent that has already embarrassed them, Jan. 12 at the Sports Arena.

“It hasn’t been talked about a lot,” guard Earl Watson said of the 91-79 loss that had the Trojans leading by 20 points in the second half and coasting in. “But I’m sure if you ask each guy, it definitely brings some perspective, some motivation. . . . Right after that game, everyone was looking forward to this date.”

Said Lavin: “I think our guys will be ready to play for a number of reasons: because it’s SC, because we’ve lost three consecutive games, because there’s only 10 games left on our schedule.”

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UCLA, hoping to get JaRon Rush’s penalty reduced so he can return at the start of next season, will not file the appeal this week. The school is still coordinating information with Rush’s attorney.

TONIGHT

USC vs. UCLA, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Pauley Pavilion.

* Radio--KXTA (1150), XTRA (690).

* Records--Trojans 13-8, 6-3; Bruins 12-8, 3-6.

* Update--UCLA guard Rico Hines, out the last four games because of a sprained toe, is expected to return tonight.

* Tickets--(310) UCLA-WIN.