Farmar Bruised but Ready to Go

By Steve Springer

March 22, 2006 12 AM PT

Times Staff Writer

An MRI exam and two X-rays on the left wrist of UCLA point guard Jordan Farmar, who was injured in Saturday’s victory over Alabama in the second round of the NCAA tournament, were negative.

Still, Bruin Coach Ben Howland isn’t happy seeing Farmar wearing a brace on the wrist, which is slightly swollen, or the sight of minor swelling on Farmar’s right thumb.

“I’ll be fine,” said Farmar, who insists his ability to control the ball or shoot it will not be affected by the injury.

Farmar was hurt breaking his fall with both arms after colliding with several Alabama players as he drove down the lane with a little over six minutes to play Saturday.

Farmar, who was called for a charge, has not missed any playing time because of the injury.

UCLA will face Gonzaga on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Oakland Arena in the third round of the tournament.

Hot and cold: UCLA center Ryan Hollins has not missed a shot from the floor in the tournament, going five for five against Alabama after connecting on the three shots he took against Belmont.

Forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, shooting 75.3% from the free-throw line coming into the tournament, was just one for five against Alabama on a day when his whole team struggled, hitting five of 13 free-throw attempts.

“Everything was feeling good. The ball was just not going in,” said Mbah a Moute, illustrating his point by connecting on 90 of 100 free-throw attempts in practice.

After studying the tape of the Alabama game, Howland came to the conclusion that forward Cedric Bozeman was his most effective player.

“I didn’t realize how good he was until I got a chance to watch the game again,” Howland said.

It was more than just the numbers, said Howland of Bozeman, who had seven assists, five points and four rebounds.

“He’s supporting guys. He’s really being a great leader,” said Howland of the fifth-year senior. “I’m really proud of how he’s grown. Every one of his teammates has the ultimate respect for Ced.”

Told of Howland’s remarks, Bozeman said, “That’s really something coming from Coach. I know this is my last hurrah and the guys are looking to me.”