The Pacific 12 conference takes a slide from the talented filled year that paraded the gyms of Arizona and Washington. The 10-11 season proved to be fairly successful in which showcased a conference team in Arizona competing and lasting until the Elite 8. Though this year the Pac-12 will host a batch of teams more equal, which will create for great games, though a rather weaker conference?
The Pacific-12 has already had the news of an early collapse revolving around University of Arizona’s lost to Seattle Pacific. The game between the two schools had been scheduled as an exhibition, yet exposed the true red, navy, and white of the Wildcats. Arizona lacks the full fire power and frankly misses Derek Williams who sits on the couch watching the NBA play tag against the Player’s Association. The front runners for the conference title clash between Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington, and UCLA. Although out of the five Pac-12 leaders, the team that truly has the best opportunity of winning the conference is UCLA.
The Bruins backbone revolves around the front court and the intensity produced in the post. From the likes of Joshua Smith and Reeves Nelson, who both are All-Conference material, brings energy to create matchup problems for most opposing teams. The bench even bolsters athletic talent with Anthony Stover, and the Wear Twins. Both Travis and David Wear red-shirted last year after transferring from UNC, but are eagerly waiting to contribute and will fill out with their lanky, athletic build.
Ben Howland continues to coach with prowess and intensity pushing his players to the max. There is no lack of coaching ability, just lack of a tested backcourt. Coach Howland’s prime concern revolves around establishing a secure ball handler. To properly run the Bruins’ offense, strength in passes and few turnovers weigh high on his list of necessities. Also to properly relieve the frontcourt from defensive problems, the development of a shooter will need to be evolved to shift the offense to the typical Howland “inside-out” style.
If UCLA can establish a backcourt, the brawn frontcourt will produce with great stats and not only is the Pac-12 conference title at stake, but a deep run into the dance could lurk right around the corner.