UCLA Basketball: Get Out And Support Your Squad, Bruin Fans!

Mar 2, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Norman Powell (4) reacts during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at the Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

This was going to be a piece about the lack of support at UCLA Men’s Basketball games, but it has since evolved into the more uppity piece you are about to read. Instead of chastising UCLA fans and the Athletic Department, we will just chastise the Athletic Department, just kidding. But Seriously, this is a call for all Bruins to get to UCLA and #FillPauley.

This Saturday, the Bruins close out their non-conference schedule against Alabama. If you have not seen your Bruins, now is the time. Do you need convincing? Well, that is what this piece is for!

The Alford/Guerrero Rage

Look, it is apparent that Athletic Director Dan Guerrero bumbled another coaching hire, but like football, UCLA could have picked a diamond in the rough, like they did with coach Jim Mora. Still, we are a long way from that, but here is why you, the UCLA fan, should break through that Steve Alford/Guerrero rage.

Despite the horrible coaching search process by Guerrero, and the bad press Alford received for his stupidity at Iowa, it is important to know that this new coach is here for a while, especially with his outrageous contract. The introductory press conference for Alford at UCLA was none too comfortable either. Still, he did release an apology.

Look, we are not saying forgive him, hell hate him until the end of time if you chose, I am saying get through that rage because there is a bigger reason for supporting him…his players.

These Are Your Bruins

These are the kids that have come to UCLA to represent you! Kyle Anderson did not have to come across the country, but he is doing it whilst nearly getting a triple-double each night…FOR YOU, UCLA!

Dec 22, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard/forward Kyle Anderson (5) grabs a rebound in the first half of the game against the Weber State Wildcats at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Jordan Adams could have gone to a school closer to his hometown of Atlanta, but he did not. He is averaging over 20 points a night…FOR YOU, UCLA!

Nov 22, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Jordan Adams (3) on the bench in the second half of the game against the Morehead State Eagles at Pauley Pavilion. UCLA won 81-70. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Zach LaVine, the human highlight reel, could have gone anywhere else after he gave a commitment to the old coaching regime, who has since been let go, but he did not. He kept his commitment to the Bruins…FOR YOU, UCLA!

December 14, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Zach LaVine (14) dunks to score a basket against the Prairie View A

All of these Bruins are here for you. And you know what this team is doing? Read on…

This Is A Damn Good Team

This is nowhere near the slow, boring brand of basketball that had infected UCLA the last decade. If you have not yet come to Pauley, then now is the best time to do so. These kids are scoring 86.4 points in every game (7th in the nation). Have you heard of Zach LaVine, the big time freshman baller? Do you like players that are more “old skool” and get 20+ points with finesse? Watch Jordan Adams. How about a 6’9” point guard? You’ll love Kyle Anderson!

The one thing that it great about this team, is that Alford is using the athleticism they possess to their advantage. You see that in the way a guy like Norman Powell can get above the rim with his own personal air show. Powell has nearly doubled his points per game from last season as he is getting 11.0 this year as opposed to 6.1. Now if that does not convinvce you that a person can thrive in this style of basketball, well, you probably do not like good, competitive hoops.

November24, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Norman Powell (4) against the Chattanooga Mocs during the second half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Bruins also have great support from David Wear, Travis Wear, Bryce Alford, Wanaah Bail and Tony Parker. For a team that has only played together in this new system for 12 games, they are coming along pretty well. This is what it is about this year, playing some really good ball, for you.

Getting To UCLA, Now You Have No Excuse

So, it sucks getting to UCLA, huh? Yup, it always has and always will. It is the construction, really. It never ends.

BUT FEAR NOT! We got your game plan for getting to the game!

First off, the 405 is crap right now, so I do not blame you for not wanting to tackle that monster, but also consider, it is the Saturday night before New Year’s, there will be no one out. If you have further concerns, please consult this MTA webpage for information on the 405.

FYI, Beverly Glen, Bellagio and Sepulveda are all good street options from the Valley, if you chose. I do recommend the drive, for it is beautiful this time of year.

Also, the Westwood Turnaround, near Ackerman, is pretty much non-existent. That goes for Lot 6. So, the closest parking structures are Structures 8 and 9 to the south of Pauley along Westwood Blvd and Structures 4 and 7 which are to the north and accessible via Sunset Blvd. Parking kiosks are available near these structures if you need assistance.

And if you need tickets to the game, click here.

Happy Holidays, Bruin fans! Come out and support UCLA, it is the gift that keeps on giving. See you there!

Mike W.R.

Twitter: @TheBigDisco