By LARRY VAUGHT
When Kentucky plays UCLA in the CBS Sports Classic Saturday there will be a familiar face playing for the Bruins.
Sophomore Johnny Juzang transferred from UK after his freshman season — with the blessing of UK coach John Calipari. Juzang made his UCLA debut in the Bruins’ 83-56 victory over San Diego last week at Pauley Pavilion after missing the first four games with a foot injury. He had 10 points — and hit a 3-pointer — and three rebounds in 19 minutes.
UCLA coach Mick Cronin likes what Juzang adds for the Bruins that might not show on the stat sheet.
“Johnny is such a weapon to score, he gives space to guys to drive to the basket,” Cronin said. “You always have to be guarding him.”
Juzang, who had a limited role at UK, was happy to finally get to play again, especially back in his home state.
“It felt great, man. I’ve been waiting to play a game in this jersey for a while now. My conditioning, my body in general, my foot as well – everything felt really good,” Juzang said after the win.
UCLA has a balanced scoring offense and Cronin likes to go to his bench
“We have multiple guys that can start. Trying to wear teams down with fresh bodies is going to be a big factor for us going forward,” Cronin said. “Whoever we put in the game, we have to be able to count on them to be solid on the defensive end and make good decisions on the offensive end. It will allow us to play at a pace that wears teams down.”
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