Thompson Is First Class as Sixth Man

Dijon Thompson isn’t thrilled about his role as sixth man the last four games, but he can’t quarrel with the results.

The sophomore forward led UCLA with 21 points and five assists against Kansas on Saturday and is averaging 16.5 points coming off the bench.

“You can see the way I’m playing, it doesn’t bother me,” he said with a shrug. “I just roll with it.”

Thompson played 29 minutes before fouling out, more than any Bruin besides senior guards Jason Kapono (32) and Ray Young (30).

“He gives us a spark and he ends up playing starter’s minutes,” Coach Steve Lavin said.

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In his third game since becoming eligible, sophomore forward Andre Patterson made his first start and his greatest impact.

Patterson made six of eight shots for 12 points, displaying a soft touch on a hook shot from the lane. He played only 20 minutes because of foul trouble.

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Freshman center Ryan Hollins, who averaged 12 minutes in the first five games, did not play. He said his benching was not disciplinary and it surprised him.

“Maybe it’s because Andre is back,” he said. “I’m not sure why. I just take my minutes as they come.”

Lavin said Patterson’s return makes for fewer minutes for Hollins and fellow freshman post player Michael Fey, who played only five minutes.

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Former Kansas All-American Jacque Vaughn had his jersey retired at halftime. Coach Roy Williams stayed on the court to introduce Vaughn, who starred for Kansas from 1994-97.

Vaughn, a product of Pasadena Muir High, is in his sixth NBA season.

UP NEXT

Saturday vs. Michigan, 11 a.m. -- This will be UCLA’s last nonconference game before heading to Washington and Washington State to begin Pacific 10 Conference play Jan. 2 and 4. The Wolverines are 3-6.