UCLA just pulled off a stunner today beating Arizona. What a win. Do you think that this will affect UCLA's decision to fire Lavin in the offseason?
I don't think it will affect their decision unless Lavin maintains his cockroach tendencies (ability to ALWAYS stay alive) and takes that team to the NCAA tourney. Even then, if they don't do any damage, they probably see it as a time to make a change, get in some new blood. Also, while it was an upset, don't forget that UCLA has a tremendously talented team. And, they way Lute Olsen downplays the importance of the conf. tourney, it wouldn't surprise me if the 'Cats played like crap because of the way their coach seemed to nonprioritize it. Gardner shooting 2 for 20? Ouch.
UCLA had been playing closer to their talent lately. Arizona was very flat, especially defensively. Also, it was was basically a home game for UCLA who were giving a last hurrah for their coach. No excuses, but understandable. I was much more upset with the LSU & Stanford (at home) loses to tell you the truth. Honestly I also think it was a good thing for Arizona. Less of a chance Walton or Stoud re-injures their ankle in practice than in 2 more games. It is also a good reminder they are not immortal, unlike Kentucky which seems to maintain there intensity day after day, Arizona has had some stretches where they basically do a walk through an expect a W--and some times it has biten them. After the 3 lacksadaisical games Arizona played this year that they lost (LSU, Stanford, UCLA; they played maybe 5-6 more than they won but messed around) they have come out madder than hornets. This was the worst thing that could have happened to Arizona's first 2 opponents in the NCAAs. They are still in line for the West #1 seed of course, though UK can grab the overall #1 now with a conference turney championship. The absolute worst overall seeding UA could get is the #3--but I am not sure even if UT or Kansas wins the Big 12 turney that would be enough to get ahead of Arizona overall considering Arizona beat both of them (at Kansas even) and has a couple less loses.
Oh yeah, barring UCLA ending the season a step away from the final 4 or something crazy like that Lavin is gone. I have to respect the way him and his players have pulled together and handled themselves--I hope they win the Pac 10 turney.
Steve Lavin bears a close resemblence to Pat Riley....ooh, what is it? I just can't put my finger on it...
