How Long Has It Been?

16 seasons removed from its last championship, UCLA fans can only reminisce on the "Glory Days."

 

In Pauley Pavilion, they don't hang final four banners, but only those of the teams that triumph over all competitors and win national championships.  In the late 1960's and early 1970's, UCLA Basketball set the standard for the rest of the nation to follow.  Led by a supreme coach and a few hall of famers, the Bruins won like no other collegiate team in history.  However, nearly 50 years since their first title, the Bruins are trying desperately to rebuild a true contender in college hoops. 

When Ben Howland led UCLA to three straight final fours from 2006-2008, it seemed as if a new era of UCLA basketball had been ushered in.  However, since then, UCLA has not advanced past the second round, and is yet to have a team that can truly contend for a title amongst college basketball's elite.  So, why is a team with such a talented coach struggling out get out of mediocrity?  Maybe players don't want to play out west, not enough exposure?  Could it be that there may be more competition in the Big East, Big Ten, ACC, etc.?  To be honest with you, I don't know the answer to that question.  One thing that has me scratching my head, however, is UCLA's struggle to gather at least a somewhat solid recruiting class.  And, without a talented team, UCLA fans will only be able to have memories of the "good ol' days'".