Keefe impresses Howland

UCLA forward James Keefe has impressed Coach Ben Howland after the sophomore’s first two practices this season.

Keefe underwent shoulder surgery last August and was cleared for contact Tuesday.

“It is obvious that James has done a lot of conditioning . . . because he looked to be in great shape today,” Howland said after Wednesday’s practice.

“He looked very good for someone that hasn’t practiced or played for four months.”

Wednesday was only the second time this season all 11 Bruin scholarship players have been available.

Howland also said juniors Darren Collison and Michael Roll are continuing to improve their conditioning. Collison sprained his left knee Nov. 2 and Roll ruptured his plantar fascia Nov. 3. Both returned last week.

Point guard Collison played 39 minutes in his first start of the season, a 63-61 loss to Texas on Sunday, and had 12 points, five assists and one turnover. Roll played his first five minutes of the season against Texas and had one rebound and two turnovers.

Seventh-ranked UCLA plays again Saturday at the Honda Center in the Wooden Classic against Davidson.

Senior center Lorenzo Mata-Real will have his South Gate High jersey retired in a ceremony at halftime of South Gate’s Dec. 14 game against South East High at South Gate Park Sports Center. The game begins at 7 p.m.

diane.pucin@latimes.com