THIS is what I have known of UCLA basketball since John Wooden came to Westwood back in 1947 (I was five years old).
Lauren was teh spine of this team, the backbone.
Kiki was the foundation, she steadied it every time it was challenged.
And Gabriela was the heart, IS the heart.
Close says the banners gather dust. Not in our minds and hearts, Coach, not for us.
Whenever they show the banners in Pauley, for me it brings back those teams, those players, those times. I was a student back when Walt Hazzard came and gave JRW the one missing piece he needed to put together the ultimate dynasty. I've loved every single year - okay, some more than others. But I don't know if I've loved and enjoyed a team as much as this team since our first national championship team back when I was in school. And the '95 team is up there also.
But I just couldn't be happier for this team, this group of terrific young women who will ALWAYS be united as one with their NC trophy.
Thank you so much, Bruins - for all the memories and they will last long as I do