Coaches Taking Shots From Downtown

There were a few moments of levity Tuesday during a UCLA-USC luncheon at the Los Angeles Athletic Club, an event for fans that was attended by Bruin Coach Steve Lavin and assistant coach Michael Holton, as well as USC assistant coach David Miller and guard Tyler Murphy. Each participated in a question-and-answer session with fans.

Someone in the crowd asked Lavin if the Bruins plan to press much Thursday night. Lavin started to answer, then noticed it was Miller who playfully asked the question.

“Dave, I’ve got a scouting report ready for you right here,” Lavin joked. “I’ll get some video clips cut up and sent to you too.”

Later, Miller suggested a game between the USC and UCLA coaching staffs.

“We’re winning that game,” Miller said. “That staff can’t beat this staff. That’s the attitude you have to have.”

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Holton had high praise for USC Coach Henry Bibby, his coach during a brief stint with the Tulsa Fast Breakers of the Continental Basketball Assn.

“Henry has elevated USC’s basketball program to the national level,” Holton said. “They’re a ranked team, and deservedly so. . . . He’s coached at the pro level. With that comes a lot of offensive sets, plays and wrinkles that forces you to really prepare for when you’re playing against them.”