UCLA is a team that is, admittedly, under construction. It’s a team filled with new faces, without an identity. Still, men’s basketball coach Steve Alford is hesitant to use that dreaded “R-word.” “I hope it’s not ‘rebuilding’ – I hope that foundation was laid (last year),” Alford said. Read more...

Photo: After playing an exhibition game against Azusa Pacific and a scrimmage so far this season, senior guard Norman Powell said that using the defense as a way to catalyze fast breaks is key. (Austin Yu/Daily Bruin senior staff)

The UCLA men’s basketball team held its first open practice Wednesday at Pauley Pavilion since the flood in late July severely damaged the arena, leading to a number of renovations, including a brand new court. Read more...

Photo: The UCLA men’s basketball team held its first open practice on the newly renovated courts of Pauley Pavilion. (Katie Meyers/Daily Bruin senior staff)

UCLA is well aware of who it doesn’t have. Twenty days out from men’s basketball’s opening game against Montana State on Nov. 14, the Bruins are focused on figuring out who they do have. Read more...

Photo: Sophomore guard Bryce Alford said he’s had experience being a leader all four years of his high school career, and that leadership is one of his strengths as a basketball player. (Austin Yu/Daily Bruin senior staff)