Jaylen Hands, an old-timer as a sophomore point guard on this UCLA basketball team, had just finished ticking off the attributes of every freshman when he paused to make sure he hadn’t forgotten anyone.
Having so many newcomers leads to some inevitable feeling-out moments. Coach Steve Alford noted that several freshmen were still trying to navigate Pauley Pavilion, their new basketball home. Shooting guard David Singleton acknowledged having reported to the women’s side of the building with fellow freshman Kenneth Nwuba before reversing course.
Freshman center Moses Brown seemed unsure where to position his 7-foot-2 body when he appeared in front of reporters, asking if he needed to step on a blue X taped onto the court.