The Bruins are ranked fourth in the nation in both the ESPN/Coaches and Associated Press polls, while Michigan is unranked.

UCLA is being touted for having the best recruiting class in the nation, lead by McDonald’s All-American Jrue Holiday.

But don’t let the youth fool you. The Bruins are also a solid veteran team led by Preseason All-American Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, James Keefe and Alfred Aboya.

UCLA reached the semis by defeating Prairie View A&M 82-58 and Miami (Ohio) 64-59.

So far the Wolverines and second year coach John Beillein are doing a pretty good job in rebuilding a program that longs for its glory days of being one of the elite in the nations. Michigan Tech 77-55 and in a 76-56 win against Northeastern.

Sophomore guard Manny Harris has All-American, or at least All-Big 10 (plus one) written all over him. In the two wins he has averaged 28 points a game.

But two good games does not make a season. This will be the first real test of the season for the Wolverines against a UCLA team that is favored by 12 points.

The winner will play the winner of 10th ranked Duke/Southern Illinois game in the other semifinal tonight. The championship and consolation games are scheduled for Friday night.

All games will be shown on ESPN2.

Post from: EveryJoe

Game of the Day: UCLA vs. Michigan

– Corperryale “Manny” Harris scored a career high 30 in Michigan’s laugher against Michigan Tech. Michigan will play Northeastern today at 8pm.

– DawgBlog says to watch out for the nice touch of Massachusetts big man Tony Gaffney.

– UCLA opens up their season against the mysterious Panthers of Prairie View A&M at 7pm Kevin’s time.

STAT of the DAY

Duke’s 6′4 freshman Elliot Williams managed to grab 11 rebounds in 14 minutes of action.

Again, 2K Sports Classic bracket is here

Post from: EveryJoe

Manny Harris gets career high and Singler scores 19 again