Bruins in the NBA Report

By KS Wong
Bruin Basketball Report

With the NBA taking an all-star break in the season, it gives us a chance to check on the ten Bruin alumni currently playing in the league.

Arron Afflalo, Detroit Pistons: In just half a season NBA crowds are learning what UCLA basketball fans have known for quite some time - there is no denying the heart of a warrior. Afflalo has played a major part in the Detroit Piston's surge to a 39-13 record and first place in the Central Division. Coming off the bench, Afflalo brings a unique brand of defensive intensity onto the floor. Whether it is guarding 6'6 Kobe Bryant on the perimeter or 6'10 forward Rashard Lewis down low, Afflalo makes it hard for players to get the ball and even more difficult for them to get off a clean shot.

He is averaging 3.5 points in 11.5 minutes a game and is usually given the assignment of guarding the opponent's best wing player (Sound familiar?). Afflalo is shooting 42% from the field but only 21% on three-pointers. If he is going to continue to be a factor in the league, he'll need to improve on his outside shooting. In the meantime, a once aging Piston team now possesses a promising young backcourt nucleus of Afflalo and fellow first-rounder Rodney Stuckey for years to come.

Trevor Ariza, Los Angeles Lakers: In what appeared to be a promising new beginning in Los Angeles, took a bad turn back to some old problems. Ariza, who was finding his niche with the upstart Lakers, fractured his right foot at practice in late January. He has had been plagued by foot injuries and other lingering health problems throughout his young NBA career.

Ariza is averaging 6.5 points and 3.5 rebounds in 24 minutes since being acquired from Orlando in November for Brian Cook and Maurice Evans. He is expected to return to the Lakers prior to the playoffs in March.

Matt Barnes, Golden State Warriors: Barnes has established himself as a tough all-around performer in the league. He is averaging 8.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 45 games this season. Barnes' minutes have gone down somewhat since the signing of free-agent Chris Webber, but he remains an invaluable member on the Warriors ball club. His high-energy style of play is a perfect fit in Coach Don Nelson's system.

Baron Davis, Golden State Warriors: Although he was not named to the All-star team this season, many believed Davis was deserving of a slot. He is averaging 21.6 points, 8.0 assists and 4.8 rebounds in almost 40 minutes of action per game. He has been the team's leader both on and off the court in helping the Warriors to an impressive 32-20 record this season.

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers view Farmar as their point-guard of the future after trading 2007 first-round draft pick Javaris Crittenton to Memphis in the Pau Gasol deal. Its an ideal situation for Farmar in Los Angeles who is playing major minutes while being mentored by veteran Derek Fisher.

Although he has struggled in the past few games, Farmar is still averaging 9.2 points and 2.7 assists in 20.8 minutes. He was picked to play in the freshman vs. sophomore game during All-star weekend.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks: Perhaps one of the more athletic big men in the league, Gadzuric brings a lot of energy off the bench for the Bucks. He is averaging 3.1 points and 2.5 rebounds in 9.9 minutes.

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats: The opportunties have been there for the young center, but Hollins has been unable to capitalize on them. The season started with much promise for Hollins since the Bobcats were short along the front line due to injuries. But Hollins has been inconsistent at best, and is now playing behind journeyman Nazr Mohammed. Hollins is averaging 2.4 points and 2.2 rebounds over 39 games.

Jason Kapono, Toronto Raptors: Signed to a big contract over the summer by the Raptors, Kapono has been relegated to a contributor off the bench with ex-NBDL player Jamrio Moon taking his spot in the starting line-up. Kapono's biggest weakness has been his defense and ability to guard high-scoring wings. He is averaging 8.2 points while shooting 50% from the field and 51% on three-pointers. He will be at the All-star game to defend his three-point shooting crown.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors: With T.J. Ford injured much of this season, the 36 year-old Martin has played more minutes than expected. Although he is still closer to being a coach than a regular contributor on the court, Martin is managing to average 1.8 points and 1.3 assists in 8.9 minutes of action per game.

Earl Watson, Seattle Sonics: Watson has been on the verge of being traded all season, however, he just continues to produce. The 6'1 guard from Kansas City is averaging 8.6 points and 6.5 assists this season. Last week he earned a triple-double by recording 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over Sacramento.

(photo credit: NBA.com)

Bruins in the NBA Report

By KS Wong
Bruin Basketball Report

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers: Farmar and Derek Fisher have formed an effective tandem in the backcourt.  Fisher brings veteran leadership and championship experience while Farmar provides the Lakers with a burst of youthful energy off the bench.  Farmar has improved in every category versus his rookie season, he's averaging 9.4 points, 2.9 assists in 20.5 minutes while shooting 48.5% from the field including 38.6% from beyond the arc.  While he still needs to improve with consistency from game to game, Farmar is still only 21 years old and along with center Andrew Bynum form the pillars of the future for the Lakers team.

Arron Afflalo, Detroit Pistons: Rookie Arron Afflalo continues to do a solid job for the Pistons.  With veterans Richard Hamilton and Flip Murray ahead of him on the depth chart, Afflalo isn't expected to play major minutes this season unless there is an injury to players, however, he continues to play solid defense and doesn't make many mistakes when he's on the floor.  Afflalo is averaging 3.5 points and 1.1 rebounds in 11.5 minutes and has no turnovers in his last nine games  If he expects to earn additional time on the floor, he'll need to improve upon his outside shooting where he is shooting just 42.5% from the field and an anemic 7.7% (1-13) from three-point distance.

Matt Barnes, Golden St. Warriors: Tragically Matt Barnes beloved mother, Ann Barnes, passed away from cancer on Tuesday.  He had missed five games in November due to a leave of absence in order to be with his mother during her final days.  She had urged Barnes to play again despite her sickness because it was one thing that made her very happy.  Upon returning to the line-up and playing against the Sacramento Kings, she passed away shortly after the end of the game.  Barnes has been hobbled by nagging injuries for most of the season but has been coming on as of late despite playing with a dislocated ring finger, and of course, having to face a difficult personal situation.

Baron Davis, Golden St. Warriors: Davis is having one of his best offensive performances in his career this year.  After struggling with outside shooting earlier in the season, he has improved his field goal shooting to 42.5% and 32.2% from three-point distance while averaging a career-high 24.0 points a game.  He is also dishing out 8.6 assists and grabbing 5.4 rebounds a contest.  Davis, along with the return of teammate Stephen Jackson, is one of the main reasons for the Warriors stellar play of late .  After starting off the season with six straight losses, the Warriors have won 8 of their last 9 games to vault into third place in the Pacific Division standings.

Trevor Ariza, Los Angeles Lakers: After struggling to get into Stan Van Gundy's rotation in Orlando, Ariza received a pleasant surprise by being dealt last week to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for reserves Brian Cook and Maurice Evans.  Ariza, a Los Angeles native, is expected to provide the Lakers with intensity off the bench especially on the defensive end.  He has only played in one of four of the Lakers games since the trade, and it may be awhile before he learns the intricacies of Phil Jackson's triangle offense and earns minutes on the floor.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks: With Andrew Bogut, Charlie Villaneuva, and Jianlian Yi each playing major minutes at the four and five spots, Gadzuric's minutes have been limited this season. Still, he is averaging a respectable 2.4 points and 2.8 rebounds in 11.1 minutes of action per game.

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats: Hollins suffered a strained left shoulder earlier in the week. Although an MRI revealed no tear or damage, he has missed the Bobcat's last three games and is listed day-to-day.  Up to that point he was averaging 3.0 points and 3.8 rebounds a game in 14.3 minutes of action.

Jason Kapono, Toronto Raptors: After starting the first six games of the season for the Raptors, Kapono is now coming off the bench in favor of Jamario Moon who provides the Raptors with better rebounding and defense. But the move has been a plus for both Kapono and the Raptors.  Since becoming a reserve, Kapono has shot over 55% from the field and is now averaging 9.8 points a game while shooting 52.6% from the field and 48.9% from beyond the arc for the second-place Raptors.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors: Due to an arm injury to guard T.J. Ford,  Martin was activated on the Raptor roster four games ago and is averaging 9.3 minutes a game.  Once Ford returns in a couple of days, Martin will return to inactive status and continue his role as veteran leader in the locker room.

Earl Watson, Seattle Supersonics: Watson is in a battle with Delonte West for the starting job in Seattle.  The Sonics who have struggled all season were in need of a shake-up and replaced Watson with West a couple of games ago.  Watson has suffered from inconsistent shooting all season, he is averaging 7.2 points and 5.9 assists a game this season on just 38.5% shooting.

Jelani McCoy, Denver Nuggets: The Nuggets signed center Jelani McCoy off the Los Angeles Lakers' Developmental League affiliate Thursday, bringing back a big man who had played with them in the preseason. McCoy averaged 8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4 blocks and 3.5 assists in two games with the L.A. D-Fenders.  McCoy had played overseas the past two seasons.

(photo credit: NBA)

Bruins in the NBA Report

By KS Wong
Bruin Basketball Report

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers: Farmar has continued his solid play from the preseason into the regular season.  He's averaging 10.3 points and 3.3 assists in almost 20 minutes a game.  Farmar is gaining the trust of Lakers Coach Phil Jackson who no longer hesitates putting Farmer into key spots during the game.  He only has committed two turnovers in his first three games of the season.

Arron Afflalo, Detroit Pistons: Afflalo has found a good match in the Detroit Pistons. The rookie guard has impressed teammates with his toughness and intensity which matches well with the blue-collar ethic of the team and city.  Afflalo started the first two games of the season filling in for Richard Hamilton, but with Hamilton returning and veteran reserve guard Flip Murray playing well, Afflalo may only see minutes if there are injuries to players in the rotation.  Still, Afflalo has made quite an impression in his short time in the league.

Matt Barnes, Golden St. Warriors: The Warriors have started the season very slowly and now will be without one of their team captains.  Barnes dislocated a finger on his shooting hand yesterday and will be sidelined for an undetermined time.  He was averaging 6.0 points and 2.8 rebounds in 18 minutes of play.  The Warriors are already without Stephen Jackson, another team captain, who was suspended for the first seven games of the season.

Baron Davis, Golden St. Warriors:  Some think that Baron Davis is pressing too hard at the start of the season.  With the departure of backcourt mate Jason Richardson and the suspension of Stephen Jackson, the Warriors are missing a lot of their offensive fire power.  Although Davis is averaging 21.8 points a game, he is shooting a miserable 37.2% from the field including just 12% from three-point distance.

Trevor Ariza, Orlando Magic: Ariza struggled through much of the preseason with injuries and now he finds himself battling for playing time in new coach Jeff Van Gundy's rotation who is looking on settling on eight primary players to play in a game. Right now, Ariza is on the outside looking in - he played just 32 seconds, one minute if you round up, in the Magic's last game.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks: Gadzuric has been playing solid back-up minutes at center for the Bucks.  He is averaging 3.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 13.4 minutes a game.

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats: The Bobcats had shortly considered starting Hollins at center due to injuries at the position but decided they needed more experience and have gone to primarily Primoz Brezec and Emeka Okafor.  Hollins has averaged 8.5 minutes a game; however, he played 17 minutes against Philadelphia in a losing effort on Wednesday grabbing a career-high 7 rebounds.

Jason Kapono, Toronto Raptors: After winning the starting small forward spot in the Raptors line-up during preseason, there is now some concern about Kapono's defense and his ability to guard high-scoring shooting forwards. While he is averaging 8.5 points on 58.3% shooting and 62.5% from beyond the arc, his opposite numbers Richard Jefferson scored 27 points and Andre Igoudala had 23 points against Kapono in the first two games of the season.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors: The 13 year veteran is starting the season on the Raptor's inactive list.

Earl Watson, Seattle Supersonics: Watson has not been shooting well and may be replaced in the starting line-up by Luke Ridnour if his shot doesn't improve. Watson is shooting just 25.9% from the field although he is averaging 6.8 assists a game.

(photo credit: NBA)

Bruins in the NBA Report

By KS Wong
Bruin Basketball Report

When the NBA opens its regular season, ten former Bruins will be on NBA rosters, including rookie guard Arron Afflalo of the Detroit Pistons.

All teams were required to trim rosters to the league mandated fifteen players yesterday. Two former Bruins were cut prior to the end of preseason camp: Jelani McCoy (Nuggets) and Andre Patterson (Lakers).

Here is a look at the former Bruins around the NBA at the start of the regular season.

Arron Afflalo, Detroit Pistons: With the hand injury to fellow rookie Rodney Stuckey, Afflalo finds himself in the Detroit rotation as the back-up shooting guard to starter Richard Hamilton. Afflalo followed a solid summer league with an impressive preseason camp shooting over 50% and playing aggressive defense. While he still has much to learn in the league, Piston management has already taken notice of Afflalo's unique work ethic and warrior mentality.

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers: Farmar had a stunning preseason for the Lakers, which even prompted Lakers Coach Phil Jackson to state he might be one of the most improved players on the team this season. Farmar has been more aggressive on offense and has developed an explosiveness in his drives, something rarely seen during his career at UCLA. While veteran Derek Fisher will start in the backcourt, the Lakers feel very comfortable, and perhaps play even better, when Farmar is on the floor.

Matt Barnes, Golden St. Warriors: Barnes has come a long way since last summer when he was simply hoping for a spot on a roster. He has solidified his role on the team and was named one of the team's tri-captains. Look for Barnes to have another good season, especially since he's only signed to a one-year contract with the Warriors and is looking for a lucrative long-term deal next spring.

Baron Davis, Golden St. Warriors: With the departure of Jason Richardson, Davis understands he'll need to pick up some of the scoring slack from his departed backcourt mate. Davis is looking to continue his elite-play from the post-season. He announced during the preseason that he would wait until the end of the year before negotiating a new contract extension with the Warriors.

Trevor Ariza, Orlando Magic: Orlando management remains high on Ariza's potential; however, nagging foot and leg injuries have hampered his rise. Expected to battle for the starting spot at shooting guard, Ariza never had the opportunity due to a injured foot he suffered in camp. When he gets healthy, Ariza will likely come off the bench backing up both shooting guard and small forward spots.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks: Gadzuric had a solid preseason camp and started a few games in place of an injured Andrew Bogut. He averaged 7.0 points and 5.3 rebounds in 19 minutes of play and impressed coaches with his energy and hustle. Bogut is expected to return for the start of the season with Gadzuric returning to the bench.

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats: With multiple injuries along the Bobcat front line, the coaches experimented with Hollins as their starting center during the preseason. However, Hollins struggled at times, mainly due to his inexperience in the league, and will likely see most of his his action coming off the bench. Veteran center Primoz Brezec is slated to start the season in the low post.

Jason Kapono, Toronto Raptors: Kapono, the reigning three-point champion, left the Miami Heat and signed a lucrative free-agent contract with the Raptors during the offseason. It appears he has beat out Joey Graham and Carlos Delfino for the starting small forward spot. Playing with a very young roster, Kapono finds himself as one of the few veterans on the club.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors: Martin is the dean of all active former Bruins in the NBA. He will start his 13th year in the league on the inactive list. Martin will serve as the emergency back-up point guard and clubhouse mentor for the Raptors.

Earl Watson, Seattle Supersonics: It appears Watson will be the Sonics starting point guard when they open the season. Luke Ridnour is still recovering from a broken nose and his play has been limited. Watson and Ridnour have been locked in a battle for the starting spot in Seattle the past two years - this season shouldn't be any different.

(photo credit: NBA)

Bruins in the NBA Report

By Bruin Basketball Report

While the UCLA faithful eagerly await the start of basketball season in Westwood, twelve former Bruins are in NBA training camps around the country working hard to refine their craft, move up in rotations, or to simply win a spot on their team's fifteen man rosters.

Here is a BBR look around the NBA training camps.

Arron Afflalo, Detroit Pistons: Despite earning First Team All-American honors and leading his team to a second consecutive Final Four, some still thought it was a mistake for Afflalo to forego his senior season for the NBA draft. However after being drafted in the first round by the Pistons, he proved he made the right decision. The Pistons were looking to inject youth into their aging backcourt especially after a poor showing against a younger Cavaliers team in the playoffs. With the addition of Afflalo and fellow first-rounder Rodney Stuckey, the Pistons now have players who can provide a spark off the bench with aggressive play. Although Afflalo struggled with his outside shooting during summer league, he still impressed the Piston brass with his effort and defense. While its still not certain whether he will start the regular season with the Pistons or their NBDL affiliate, its clear Afflalo is part of the Pistons backcourt of the future.

Trevor Ariza, Orlando Magic: With the departure of Grant Hill, Ariza has an opportunity to increase his minutes and perhaps have a break-out season. Already considered the Magic's best defender, Ariza suffered from nagging injuries last season which limited his play. Despite being in the league four years, he is still only 22 years old.

Matt Barnes, Golden St. Warriors: After coming out of no where last year to help the Warriors make an impressive run through the playoffs, Barnes was hoping for a long term free-agent contract, instead he signed an enhanced one-year contract to play for the Warriors again with hopes of proving that last season's postseason wasn't a fluke. Look for Barnes to continue his aggressive and high-energy play on both ends of the court for the Warriors this season and earn that lucrative contract. In addition to his tough play, Barnes also shot 37% from three-point distance.

Baron Davis, Golden St. Warriors: B-Diddy showed he was a big time franchise player during the Warriors' postseason march last season. Like Barnes, he had hoped to land a lucrative extension on his contract during the offseason but didn't get it from management. Regardless, Davis entered camp this season slimmed down and in the best shape of his NBA career. Although he didn't get the extension he had hoped for, he is still hungry to show all that he is one of the elite players in the NBA.

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers: Farmar earned the trust of Lakers Head Coach Phil Jackson, who doesn't normally play rookies major minutes, to star in a significant role on the Lakers squad last season. While Smush Parker is no longer with the team, the Lakers added veteran point guard Derek Fisher and first-round draft choice Javaris Crittenton to the team. With one season of the triangle offense under his belt, Farmar will look to solidify his minutes in the Lakers' rotation.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks: With Andrew Bogut starting at center, the Bucks hope Gadzuric can continue to provide solid back-up minutes. The athletic big man averaged 4.8 points and 4.6 rebounds last season for Milwaukee.

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats: Hollins split time between the Bobcats and the NBDL last season. The Bobcats love his size and athleticism. In 27 games with the Bobcats he averaged 2.4 points and 1.1 rebounds.

Jason Kapono, Toronto Raptors: Kapono, the reigning three-point champion, left the Miami Heat and signed a lucrative free-agent contract with the Raptors during the offseason. Kapono shot a career-high 51.4% from beyond the three-point arc last season and averaged 10.9 points a game. He will be battling Carlos Delfino, another Toronto offseason acquisition for minutes at the wing this season.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors: Martin is the dean of all active former Bruins in the NBA. He will start his 13th year in the league when the Raptors open the season. Martin will be looked upon to provide guidance to young point-guards T.J Ford and Jose Calderon.

Jelani McCoy, Denver Nuggets: Yes, he's back. After an impressive summer league stint, McCoy has been invited to the Nuggets training camp. He has been out of the league for the past two seasons. While he's a long shot to make the team, Bruin NBA video game enthusiasts are just giddy to have another big man to add to their UCLA team roster.

Andre Patterson, Los Angeles Lakers: Patterson, who played two years for UCLA before transferring to Tennessee, was with the Lakers' NBDL team last season.

Earl Watson, Seattle Supersonics: While the point-guard situation in Seattle is even more unsettled with the addition of Delonte West to the Watson-Luke Ridnour mixture, Watson feels more at peace and positive this season. Watson credits the hiring of new head coach P.J Carlesimo with the new team outlook.

(photo credit: NBA)

Bruins in the NBA Report

By Bruin Basketball Report

With the NBA already reaching the first quarter mark of the season, BBR updates the progress of UCLA alumni in the big leagues.

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers, Guard: We thought it would take Farmar at least until the all-star break to earn serious minutes under Lakers coach Phil Jackson, but the former Bruin has not only earned the respect of Jackson and his teammates - he's earned serious consideration to be the Lakers starting point-guard this season.

Farmar, already a Staples arena favorite, has quickly picked up the nuances of the triangle and in many instances has outplayed his veteran counterparts Smush Parker and Sasha Vujacic.

The former Taft HS star is playing an integral part in the Lakers return to atop the Pacific Division this season.  Farmar is averaging 6.4 points and 2.5 assists in 18 minutes of action per game while shooting 48.4% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc. 

Farmar has played adequately on defense, staying in front of his speedy opponents in most instances, fighting over the top of hard screens, and applying what he learned while at UCLA under Coach Ben Howland.

"The (Lakers) defense is a little different from the philosophy Coach (Ben Howland) had at UCLA," Farmar said. "There, you did the same things every game, regardless of the personnel or the situation. Here, we're changing things up every game, and there's a lot of games. But I was exposed to a lot of help-defense at UCLA, and that's paying off here."

Baron Davis, Golden State Warriors, Guard: Notice to the NBA:  Baron is back! Davis successfully shed 15 pounds before the start of the season in hopes of regaining his all-star form - and he is doing just that.

Davis is averaging 20.1 points and 8.2 assists per game, but more importantly he is shooting 44% from the field after averaging less than 40% the past few seasons.  Although he still takes some questionable shots, his shot-selection has improved under new Coach Don Nelson. 

Nelson had tried to free up Davis from some point-guard duties by giving former-Duke player Mike Dunleavy the point-forward role, but Dunleavy has been a disappointment and is currently in Nelson's doghouse and thus Davis is back to his full-time duties at the point.

Matt Barnes, Golden State Warriors, Forward: The emerging play of Matt Barnes for the Warriors has been a great story this season.  Barnes entered the Warriors camp as a free-agent invitee and made the team on the final day of training camp.

No longer the guy at the end of the roster, Barnes has been a key contributor off the bench for Golden State.  He is averaging 7.3 points and 3.0 rebounds in almost 18 minutes per game while shooting 52% from the field and an incredible 46.2% from three-point distance.  Barnes recently scored 20 points against Seattle hitting 4 three-point shots in a season-high 37 minutes of action. 

Earl Watson, Seattle Sonics, Guard: After playing the good solider at the start of training camp and not complaining about the point-guard controversy on the team, Watson's attitude changed when the Sonics announced they were giving the starting job to Luke Ridnour without giving Watson a chance to earn it.

As a result trade rumors have been circulating with one indicating he might be headed back to Memphis. But Watson is still with the Sonics and has actually picked up his play after a rough start to the season.

Watson is averaging 6.9 points and 4.1 assists in 21.5 minutes but was mired in a 33% field goal shooting slump, however over his last three games he is averaging over 16 points a game on 45% shooting.  He may still be traded before the trading deadline but it will likely depend on whether the Sonics are still contending.

Trevor Ariza, Orlando Magic, Forward:  After missing all of training camp and the first five games of the season due to a sore right foot, Ariza has been a key player off the bench for the division-leading Magic.

Ariza is averaging 5.9 points and 3.5 points in 18.1 minutes per game.  The coaches have been impressed with his solid defense and he has been a spark off the bench 

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors, Guard: Martin has spent most of the season on the Raptor's inactive list.  Although he has played in only two games, Martin's expected role this season was to serve as a mentor to young T.J. Ford.

Jason Kapono, Miami Heat, Forward: Over his last four games, Jason Kapono has been averaging 11.5 points a game on 50% shooting and 44% shooting from beyond the arc in 22 minutes of play. In his last game against the Denver Nuggets, Kapono went off for 19 points on 6 of 11 shooting.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks, Center: Gadzuric is having another solid season serving as back-up center for the Bucks.  He is averaging 4.6 points and 3.8 rebounds in over 14 minutes a game. His name has been mentioned in a number of trade rumors this season but his large contract has been a hindrance for Milwaukee management to move.

Cedric Bozeman, Atlanta Hawks, Guard-Forward: After early injuries to Marvin Williams and Speedy Claxton, Bozeman started the first month of the season in the Hawks regular rotation.

With Hawks star Joe Johnson playing practically the entire game and with Williams and Claxton returning to action, Bozeman's minutes have dwindled and he is now averaging under 5 minutes of action per game. 

Although he is averaging just under 1.0 points a game, it is Bozeman's solid defense and his ability to guard three positions which will earn him more minutes in the future with the Hawks.

Waiting in the Wings of the NBDL

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats/Fort Worth Flyers, Center: Hollins was sent down to the Fort Worth Flyers of the NBDL at the start of the season.  He is averaging a double-double, 12.2 points and 10.4 rebounds a game.  Hollins is also averaging 2.0 blocks a game.  He has impressed coaches with his aggressiveness and shot-blocking.  It wouldn't be surprising to see Hollins up with the Bobcats before the end of the season.

Dijon Thompson, Albuquerque Thunderbirds, Guard-Forward: Thompson was cut from the Warriors team during the first weeks of training camp and joined the Albuquerque Thunderbirds a few weeks ago.  He is third in the league in scoring average at 20.8 points per game. Last season, Thompson played with the Thunderbirds before being called up by the Phoenix Suns.

TJ Cummings, Albuquerque Thunderbirds, Forward:  The 6'9 Cummings is a veteran of the NBDL and is once again playing alongside Dijon Thompson on the Thunderbirds.  He is averaging 13.9 points per game on 53% field goal shooting.

(photo credit: AP and Orlando Sentinel)

Ten Former Bruins in NBA

By Bruin Basketball Report

Ten former UCLA basketball players will open the regular season Tuesday on rosters of NBA teams.

Bruins in the NBA are: Earl Watson, Seattle; Darrick Martin, Toronto; Jason Kapono, Miami; Ryan Hollins, Charlotte; Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee; Jordan Farmar, L.A. Lakers; Baron Davis, Golden St.; Cedric Bozeman, Atlanta; Matt Barnes, Golden St.; Trevor Ariza, Orlando.

While most former Bruins already had secure spots on an NBA roster, two players, Cedric Bozeman and Matt Barnes, had to wait until almost the final cut-off date for opening day rosters.

It appeared early in training camp the Hawks were planning to keep 7'1 Andreas Glyniadakis thereby leaving Bozeman to outplay a guard or small forward.  But the Hawk coaches were so enamored by Bozeman's ballhandling skills and his ability to guard three positions, they decided to keep Bozeman due to his versatility.

With teammate Marvin Williams injured, Bozeman will start the season on the Hawks' active roster list.

Similarly in Oakland, Matt Barnes had been battling Anthony Roberson for a final roster spot.  But both players impressed Coach Don Nelson and instead the Warriors kept both players and cut former Pittsburgh star forward Chris Taft.  Taft was coming back from major back surgery and did not play in the preseason.

"They both (Barnes and Roberson) earned it," Nelson said. "Nothing was given to those guys, and they made us re-think what we had intended to do."

Bozeman's Bruin teammates from last season, Ryan Hollins and Jordan Farmar, both had successful preseasons with their respective teams. 

Hollins' spot was secured when the Bobcats cut guard Kevin Burleson to trim the final roster to 15.  The 7'0 center will start the season on the inactive list and will likely play in the NBDL.

Farmar signed a first-round draft guaranteed contract with the Lakers earlier in the summer.  With injuries to Chris Mihm, Kwame Brown, and Aaron McKie, Farmar will start the season on the active roster and may see minutes early in the season.

Last season, the Bruins had eight former players in the NBA.  Dijon Thompson played for the Phoenix Suns last season but was cut by the Warriors a few weeks ago at the start of training camp.

With ten former players on teams, UCLA ranks among elite colleges with alumni on NBA rosters. 

The only other colleges with ten or more former players on NBA rosters this season are: UCONN (14), Duke (13), North Carolina (12), and Arizona (10).  Michigan St. (9) Kentucky, (9), and Kansas (8) follow the pack.

(photo credit: AP)

Bruins In The NBA Report

By Bruin Basketball Report

As training camps approach their final week, NBA teams are finalizing their rotations and rosters for opening day.  The NBA season begins on October 31.

Many former Bruins will play key roles on their respective teams while a few continue to battle for spots on a roster. The deadline for NBA opening day rosters is October 30 at 6:00PM ET. 

BBR updates the progress of all former Bruins players in NBA training camps this year. (also read report from 10/3)

Jordan Farmar, Los Angeles Lakers, Guard: Farmar has been the best Lakers point-guard on the floor the entire preseason.  His ability to pick-up the triangle offense in such a short period and his high basketball IQ has won him admiration and respect from teammates and coaching staff.  Forward Lamar Odom refers to Farmar as "Pro-Ready" coming in from the college ranks.

Although Farmar  still needs to improve his outside shooting, his decision-making and leadership on the floor should earn him an active roster spot when the season opens.  Much of it will depend on other guaranteed contract players still on the roster, namely Aaron McKie who may start off the season on the DL.

In addition, Lakers' coach Phil Jackson does not typically play rookies, although Jackson has been impressed with Farmar as well.  Farmar has "given the team some inspiration when he's come in," Jackson said

Although Farmar supporters should temper their enthusiasm. Kobe Bryant, who has been out the entire preseason, will command most of the attention on offense when he returns.  One still senses Farmar will earn regular minutes in the rotation by midseason.

Dan Gadzuric, Milwaukee Bucks, Center: With Andrew Bogut missing the first month of the season after tearing a ligament in his left leg, Gadzuric is battling Brian Skinner for the starting center position.  Although both are expected to play plenty of minutes at center until Bogut returns. 

Baron Davis, Golden State Warriors, Guard: New Warriors Head Coach Don Nelson has completely revamped the team and has built the offense around Baron Davis - and the former Bruin point-guard has thrived in it during preseason. 

Last season, Davis put up a fair share of three-point attempts because he found the middle clogged and was simply trying to do too much on offense.  However, Nelson wants Davis to attack the paint and create more for the team. 

To accommodate Davis' new role, Nelson has appointed Mike Dunleavy Jr as a point-forward to alleviate Davis' ballhanding responsibilities and has moved Troy Murphy, a perimeter shooting big man, to center to open up the lane. 

Davis recently said about former coach Mike Montgomery versus Nelson, "You know, somebody that you respect and that's going to challenge you, and at the same time you can just go out there and be a player and be coached."

Nelson thinks Davis will return to elite point-guard status this season

Earl Watson, Seattle Sonics, Guard: The starting point-guard controversy in Seattle ended almost as soon as camp opened up; however, the Sonic crisis is not over yet.

Coach Bob Hill announced Earl Watson would start off the bench and back-up Luke Ridnour at point-guard to begin the season, however, Ridnour is still unhappy because he has not been assured by the coach that he'd be playing at the end of games in the 4th  quarter.  Last season, even though Ridnour started, Hill played Watson instead during crunch time. 

What ever happened to a player listening to the coach and doing what's best for the team? Stay tuned to the soap opera in Seattle.

Trevor Ariza, Orlando Magic, Forward:  The Magic coaching staff were high on Ariza coming into training camp.  Unfortunately, the forward has been unable to play in a single preseason game since it started on October 10th. Ariza has a sore right foot from a bone bruise which has not improved with treatment.  He is scheduled to undergo another MRI this week.

Darrick Martin, Toronto Raptors, Guard: With T.J. Ford suffering from back pains and hamstring problems, Martin has played significant minutes during the preseason.  Ford's durability and inexperience are the main reasons why Martin will be starting his 12th season in the NBA.

Jason Kapono, Miami Heat, Forward: Kapono's outside shooting has drawn praise from coaching staff but his limitations on defense may make him possible trade bait.  The Heats' starting point-guard Jason Williams is currently out for the first month of  season and the team may be in need of a backup point-guard.

"I can make shots, and I know the offensive sets, the spacing, screens and cuts," Kapono said. "To earn playing time, I have to improve my defense. I understand how defense is a priority with Coach Riley."

Ryan Hollins, Charlotte Bobcats, Center: Hollins has not only impressed Bobcat coaches with his athleticism and hops but also his willingness to learn.  However, unless the Bobcats lose a frontcourt player to a trade or an injury, it appears Hollins may start the season in the NBDL.

Matt Barnes, Golden State Warriors, Forward: Barnes is battling for his life in Golden State.  Warriors GM Chris Mullins will make a decision soon to either keep Barnes or Anthony Roberson.  The Warriors like Barnes' athleticism and his ability to defend at two positions. 

There is a good chance Barnes will get the nod due to the team's need for a back-up small forward for Mikael Pietrus and Barnes' pro experience.

Dijon Thompson, Golden State Warriors, Guard-Forward: Thompson was cut from the Warriors team during the first weeks of training camp.  No news on whether he will play in the NBDL or pursue opportunities overseas.

Cedric Bozeman, Atlanta Hawks, Guard-Forward: Bozeman has an excellent chance of catching on with the Atlanta Hawks this season. His ability to guard three positions and handle the ball are the main reasons.

He is currently competing for a final roster spot with Royal Ivey, a player with a guaranteed contract, but the contract is only for the league minimum $744.000.

In addition, the Hawks are undersized at the point-guard position with barely six-footers, Speedy Claxton, Tyron Lue, and Salim Stoudamire.  Bozeman's size as a back-up point guard is certainly a positive.

Marvin Williams' recent hand injury may create a need to have another frontcourt player on the roster.  With Josh Smith likely moving up to power forward and Childress going from the bench to starter at small forward, the unfortunate injury to Wiliams may create a spot for Bozeman.

(photo credit: AP and NBA.com)