Sorry for the long absence, tough to be a one man site. Let’s get back into the swing of things!

In what could potentially be the last game of the season, UCLA takes on Arizona at Staples Center at noon pacific time. The Bruins were swept by the Wildcats in the regular season, recently losing in Tuscon after leading by double digits.

The game is officially a “pick ‘em” on various gambling sites. That sounds about right to me. Standout big man Reeves Nelson returns to action, after sitting out due to two laser surgeries to repair a partially torn retina in his left eye. He was missed severely, and could be the difference maker.

This should be another barn burner, but I think the Bruins prevail late. Arizona presents match up problems with the guard trio of Nic Wise, Lamont Jones, and Kyle Fogg. Limiting penetration and open three’s will be key for the defense. With Reeves Nelson back in the line up, UCLA should free up space beyond the arc. Look for seniors Mike Roll and Nikola Dragovic to knock some down from deep.

My prediction, UCLA by 5.

Keys to a Bruin victory:

1) Box out! Second chance attempts will kill the Bruins. I’m looking at you Drago.

2) Limit penetration. Lamont Jones was vital to the Arizona win in Tuscon. His penetration single-handedly killed UCLA.

3) Free throws. UCLA has been terrible from the charity stripe. Knocking down the freebies could be the difference between a victory and a loss.

4) Convert the easy buckets. The high percentage attempts must go down. No highlight reel stuff, just get the two points.

Here’s what they’re saying around the net about today’s game:

Examiner.com – Arizona Wildcats ready for Pac-10 tournament

ESPN.com – Previewing the Pac-10 tournament

Wildcat.Arizona.Edu – Bruins hope third times a charm

NBC Los Angeles – UCLA’s last hope. Three wins in three days

LA Observed – The Pac-10 tournament