UCLA’s New Motto: Wait Till Next Year

In typical fashion, Bill Plaschke [Feb. 22] shows a lack of understanding of the UCLA basketball program.

Real UCLA fans are not grumbling about Ben Howland’s coaching this season. None of us are saying this is no better than a Steve Lavin season. Real UCLA fans understand that Howland inherited a team that lost three starters from last year’s team and one that was seriously devoid of real talent.

Howland’s options at center are a guy who has less strength than most junior high players or a guy who drops every entry pass ever made to him. He is stuck with a point guard who has no midrange jumper, no ability to penetrate the middle consistently, and is the worst free-throw shooter on the team. He also has a bench that is made up mostly of guys who belong at mid-major schools, not UCLA.

Real UCLA fans see Howland stressing fundamentals, such as rebounding and defense. We see the recruits he has coming, (some of the elite players in the country), and we know the best is ahead of us.

Tony Siracusa

San Gabriel