It’s Easy to Point at Biggest Problem

It’s too early to consider it a weakness, too soon for alarm.

But point guard is problematic at the moment. That much is clear after UCLA’s up-and-down-and-up again performance at the Maui Invitational.

Freshman Cedric Bozeman inherited the position from Earl Watson, a pure point who started every game the last four years.

At 6-foot-6, Bozeman will hold a size advantage over nearly every opposing point guard, but judging from his lukewarm performance in the tournament he will give up quickness and experience. He made seven of 12 shots but had 11 turnovers and only nine assists.

The two less-touted freshmen--Dijon Thompson and Andre Patterson--played with more confidence and energy than Bozeman in the three games. However, Coach Steve Lavin pointed out that Bozeman had far more to absorb.

“The most difficult position on the floor is point guard, he has to know all five positions and be an extension of the coach,” Lavin said. “Typically he is guarding one of the opposing team’s better players

The freshmen proved they can giveth and taketh away, making an impressive 23 of 39 field-goal attempts, yet committing a combined 20 turnovers.

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The Bruins will have a Thanksgiving brunch today before returning home in the late afternoon. Their agenda was so packed with games, practices, meetings and study hall that there was little time to enjoy the beach and everything else Maui has to offer.

UP NEXT

Wednesday vs. Pepperdine (1-1), 7:30 p.m.--UCLA (2-1) will play the Waves and UC Riverside at home before playing Alabama in the John Wooden Classic on Dec. 8. Bruin center Dan Gadzuric has a week to regain his health and prove to Coach Steve Lavin that T.J. Cummings shouldn’t take his starting position.