Pac-12 Hotline men's basketball week in review: On Arizona's statement win over UCLA, the approaching end of that rivalry, the muddled middle of the conference and more.
Theme of the week: Arizona saves the seasonThe Wildcats became the first team to topple UCLA in conference play with a 58-52 victory played at the visitor’s tempo. Had the Bruins swept their desert swing, everyone would have been playing for second place. That could be the case eventually, but for the moment, UCLA can’t run and hide: The Bruins have a two-game lead in the loss column over Arizona, ASU, USC and Utah with several difficult road games remaining.
Theme of the century: End of an eraUCLA’s appearance at McKale Center on Saturday was its last scheduled game in Tucson as a member of the Pac-12. The intra-conference rotation calls for the teams to meet only once next season, in Pauley Pavilion. After that, UCLA will be in the Big Ten, and any matchups would require a contractual arrangement. Here’s hoping the programs find a way to make that happen. It has been the best basketball rivalry in the West for decades.
Performance of the week: Colorado’s Tristan da SilvaWhile KJ Simpson hit the winning shot Sunday over Washington State, we felt obligated to make note of da Silva’s performance: He made 11 of 13 field goals and scored 27 points — or 47 percent of CU’s total in the 58-55 victory. Rebound of the week: UtahThe Utes ended a three-game losing streak with a sweep of the Washington schools, enabling them to maintain position on the top shelf. We aren’t convinced of their staying power, but credit Utah for handling its business against the lesser teams. The three league losses have come to USC, UCLA and Oregon.
Statement game of the week: USCArizona’s win over UCLA understandably garnered the most attention, but don’t sleep on USC’s victory at ASU. The Trojans led by 20 points with four minutes remaining, then rebuffed a late rally. With Drew Petersen and Boogie Ellis forming one of the Pac-12’s best backcourts, USC is positioned to play a major role in the conference race.
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