Bruins Like Getting Into Tight Spots

Playing tight defense can be a figure of speech, but it’s literal to UCLA Coach Steve Lavin.

The tall, slow Bruins are best when packed in near the basket, shrinking the lanes and gaps that ballhandlers drive through.

“If we stay tight, we don’t allow dribble penetration and limit post catches,” Lavin said.

When UCLA is playing well defensively--like in the 70-48 victory over Oregon State on Saturday--it is difficult to tell whether the Bruins are employing a zone or man to man.

“People think we’re in a zone, but a lot of times it’s a man,” Lavin said. “We use both in most games.”

Why, then, change from one to the other?

“We want to give different looks--even though they look the same,” Lavin said, laughing.

Another benefit of tight defense is that more players are around the basket for rebounds. USC, the Bruins’ opponent Wednesday, had a big edge on the boards Jan. 10, the first time the teams played.

USC Coach Henry Bibby took offense at Oregon spectators making disparaging chants about his relationship with his son, NBA guard Mike Bibby. But the former UCLA guard probably won’t have to endure a similar episode Wednesday.

“He’s a Bruin, or was anyway,” said one fan camping outside Pauley Pavilion.

Lavin finds humor in the frequent barbs directed his way on the road, but he doesn’t want Bruin fans to get personal with Bibby.

“I’d hope our fans use good judgment in terms of being respectful and keeping it within the spirit of the game and of the rivalry, but less of a personal nature,” Lavin said.

The one-sided nature of UCLA’s games against Oregon (a 29-point loss) and Oregon State (a 22-point victory) enabled the two guys at the end of the bench to make rare appearances.

Sophomore center John Hoffart and redshirt freshman forward Josiah Johnson made their first field goals of the season against the Ducks.

Hoffart, a transfer from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, scored on a low-post move, was fouled and made the free throw. He also had an assist on a medium-range jump shot by Johnson.

“Obviously, I’d like to get that basket when the game is still being decided, but it’s always good to get in there,” Hoffart said. “This year I didn’t expect much playing time, but with so many seniors I think I’ll have an opportunity next year.”