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Only at UCLA can three straight Final Four appearances leave a sense of disappointment, but while Bruins fans are proud of their program, to get so close so often to that iconic net cutting moment, only to come away empty handed?  The feeling of frustration is natural.  Now imagine how Ben Howland and his players feel.  Remember, as bad as you want it, they want it more.   The good news is this year’s crew has a very good chance to make it four straight, and finally write themselves a better ending.  While UCLA lost three NBA caliber players in Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, and Luc-Richard Mbah a Moute, this year’s group is still loaded.  Point guard Darren Collison (left) returns for his senior season, joined by freshman sensation (and presumed one-and-done) Jrue Holliday.  He’s part of a ludicrously talented crop of newbies that also includes highly touted, 6′10″ center J’Mison “Bobo” Morgan.

To get a better feel for the ‘08-’09 Bruins, I spoke with Adam Rose of the LA Times.com, host of the What’s Bruin? blog. We talked about UCLA’s young talent, the potential for noted taskmaster Howland to loosen the reins on this athletic bunch, the possibility of rebounding trouble, and more, including news on this year’s recruiting class in Westwood.  Enjoy.

Adam Rose Podcast

Brian Kamenetzky hosts the Lakers Blog and Blue Notes: A Dodgers Blog for the LA Times.com. He’s a contributing writer to ESPN The Magazine and ESPN.com, and is a frequent guest on 710 ESPN radio in LA. Write him at bk@sportshubla.com.

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