Small Forward
Along with Collison, senior Josh Shipp is the leader of this team, both on and off the court. After being hampered by injuries for the better part of three years, Shipp is finally healthy and in the best shape of his life. He showed off his new game in the opener, dropping 20 points on only eight shots (7-8).
This leaner, quicker Shipp will not only provide UCLA with more consistent scoring but also should be greatly improved defensively—something Howland preaches constantly to his players.
Power Forward
James Keefe came on at the end of last year, showing the Bruins that all isn't lost without Mbah a Moute. The rising sophomore's shining moment came against Western Kentucky in the Sweet 16, when he dropped 18 points and grabbed six rebounds.
Keefe is not a flashy player, but he is very productive and efficient. He has a good jumper out to 15 feet and can pound down low with the big guys. UCLA would love for him to develop a post game, as they lack a post scorer and he has the best touch of all the big guys.
As is, the Bruins know they can count on Keefe to make a high percentage of shots, grab rebounds, and hustle nonstop—exactly what they need their big guys to do on this team loaded with backcourt talent.
Center
Freshman J'Mison Morgan is expected to get a lot of time, but for now, the job belongs to senior Alfred Aboya. Aboya is similar to Keefe in that he is not flashy but battles down low and can knock down the occasional jumper. He is a ferocious rebounder and defender, which is sometimes his undoing as he commits unnecessary fouls due to "overhustling."
Howland knows that Aboya needs to stay out of foul trouble this year, and whether or not he can will play a big role in how UCLA's season plays out.
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