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Congratulations to UCLA, who, in contrast to recent form, managed to win a game without falling behind early, relying on fortunate calls (or lack thereof), or miracle shots. They were all over Cal early today in their Pac-10 Tournament opener, outscoring the Bears 16-4 over the first 6:34 and by 14 at the half. UCLA continued to pile on in the second half, and at one point were up by 32 before eventually winning 88-66. Damn. The Bruins, not exactly known as a perimeter team, crushed Cal from downtown, sinking a whopping 14-25 from beyond the arc. Best sign it was a laugher? Ben Howland actually let 11 guys see time on the floor. 19 points for Darren Collison, 18 for Josh Shipp.

The Trojans had a tougher go of it against Arizona State, but 23 points from OJ Mayo and a USC D that held the Sun Devils to a whopping four points over the final 7:20 were enough for a 59-55 win. This time, it was the Trojans who were the beneficiary of some questionable whistles. However you slice it, though, this one likely ends up a first ballot inductee into the Tim Floyd Grind Out a Win Hall of Fame.

The good news is the two wins mean we get one more installment of the Battle of LA! before the NCAA Tournament kicks off next week. Both teams are in, but for USC, another win over the Bruins would do wonders for their seed. Tip is 6:00 pm Friday night.

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