Though University of California, Los Angeles men’s basketball advanced to the Final Four for three consecutive years from 2006 to 2008, the team recently has faced great struggles in succeeding in the regular season and in the tournament.  Last year they had one of the top recruiting classes, but still could not translate the team’s abundant talent into wins.  However, with many of those recruits returning, the team has high hopes of living up to the media’s and fans’ high expectations this season.

Although UCLA did win a conference title for the 2012-2013 season, head coach Ben Howland was let go as a result of a poor showings in the March Madness Tournament over the past few years.  New Mexico University’s ex-head coach Steve Alford was chosen as Howland’s replacement, given a contract of $2.6 million per year for the next seven years.  Because the buyout clause for his contract is an astounding $10.4 million, Alford is expected to be with UCLA for the long term.  After a successful revamping of New Mexico’s basketball program, there are positive conjectures for Alfred as UCLA’s head coach.

UCLA is off to an 8-0 start and is ranked 18th in the associated press poll.  Adams leads the team in points with 21.5 per game, while Anderson leads them in rebounds, assists and blocks.  Standing at six feet and nine inches tall, Anderson’s height gives him a distinct advantage on the defensive end against other guards.  Freshman guard Zach LaVine also makes a huge contribution to the team with his consistent three-point shooting.  Led by these talented players and an improved coaching staff, the Bruins are hoping to do more than just make the tournament.  Even though the team has not won the NCAA title since 1995, perhaps this season will bring it back to its longtime status as the best team in college basketball.  On Dec. 18, they are playing the 10th ranked Duke Blue Devils which will help fans and the press to determine whether or not UCLA is truly as good as their record shows.