Holton Returns With Portland

Brad Holland’s return to Pauley Pavilion was made memorable when his San Diego Toreros upset UCLA on Nov. 26. Tonight, Portland Coach Michael Holton will try to become the next former Bruin to bring in an underdog and tweak tradition.

Holton was a freshman guard in 1980 when UCLA reached the NCAA title game, then after completing his NBA career, returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach under Jim Harrick.

When Harrick was dismissed in 1996, Holton found himself working under Steve Lavin, a relationship that lasted five years, despite the growing pains of both coaches.

Holton took over at Portland last season and went 6-24. The Pilots are 3-2 and much improved this season. But are they ready for the Bruins?

“I know we are in for a steep challenge,” Holton said. “For me, personally, coming back is a proud moment. I expressed interest in scheduling this game and am comforted that they accepted. It’s a big game for us.”

Lavin, who speaks with Holton frequently, is braced for a battle because Holton knows the UCLA players so well.

“I have a lot of respect for him,” Lavin said. “He thinks he knows all of us and he’ll have some tricks up his sleeve.”

Holton’s knowledge of Bruins he coached, particularly Ray Young, Jason Kapono and T.J. Cummings, might be only moderately helpful.

“I know their strengths and weaknesses, but it might not matter,” he said.

Since becoming a head coach, Holton has a greater appreciation for what Lavin went through after replacing Harrick.

“My first year at Portland, I learned a lot about what I don’t know,” Holton said.

Said Lavin: “We went through a difficult transition when Harrick was dismissed.... I’m proud of the work Michael did and proud of the fact he is a head coach and doing well.”

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Bruin sophomore Andre Patterson was ruled academically eligible and readmitted to UCLA on Friday. The 6-foot-7 forward will suit up today.

Patterson spent the fall semester at Santa Monica College. He will begin winter quarter classes at UCLA on Jan. 6.

He averaged 2.3 points and 2.1 rebounds in nine minutes a game as a freshman. He is expected to become one of UCLA’s top post players once he gets into game condition.

“His talents and work ethic will immediately help our team,” Lavin said.