Dane Miller’s Jan 27 Pac-12 Men’s Hoops Previews

  By Dane Miller, SuperWest Sports

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Three Pac-12 men’s basketball games are slated for today, with Cal visiting UCLA, Stanford traveling to USC, and Colorado continuing its Northwest road trip against Washington.

UCLA and Colorado are coming off big victories over Arizona and Oregon, respectively, and must guard against letdowns that could prove costly come Selection Sunday.

I preview all three games here and, as always, my picks and Stephen Vilardo’s appear at the bottom.

Cal at UCLA

Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, January 27
6:00 pm PT, Pac-12 Network

Coming off their domination of Arizona, the Bruins have a quick turnaround against Mark Fox and the Bears.

UCLA played with superior defensive effort on Tuesday night, frustrating the Wildcats’ offense in a way no other team has this season. But translating that tenacity to this matchup could be a challenge.

Teams have a natural tendency to come out flat after big games, and the Bruins might fall into the trap.

The result could be a slow start and a close first half, with California taking advantage of lapses on both sides of the court.

Yet, Mick Cronin might have his players ready to go from the opening tip. If UCLA is focused and prepared, it could lead this matchup from start to finish.

Whether or not they start slow, Cronin’s team should pull away with outside shooting and physical defense.

Stanford at USC

Galen Center, Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, January 27
8:00 pm PT, FS1

Looking for revenge, USC battles Stanford at the Galen Center.

The Cardinal got the better of the Trojans earlier in this year, handing Andy Enfield’s team its first loss of the season. The upset sent USC into a brief spiral, with Oregon convincingly handling the Trojans just a few days later.

Drew Peterson figures to play a prominent role in this rematch, as the senior guard has arguably emerged as the leader of Enfield’s team.

His efficiency from the field could be the key indicator of USC’s success against the Tree.

Yet, slowing down Harrison Ingram might be more important. The true freshman is the heart and soul of Stanford’s offense, doing anything and everything asked of him.

If Ingram is contained and the USC defense forces turnovers, the Trojans should even the series at home.

Colorado at Washington

Alaska Airlines Arena, Seattle, WA
Thursday, January 27
8:00 pm PT, Pac-12 Network

Coming off one of the most surprising upsets in the Pac-12 this year, Colorado takes its talent to Seattle.

The victory over Oregon on Tuesday night reinvigorated CU’s NCAA Tournament hopes, but the newfound momentum could evaporate with a loss to Washington.

The Dawgs were embarrassed last time they took the floor, struggling to score on the road in Eugene.

Yet, the poor offensive performance against the Ducks must be cast aside, and there’s no better way to move on than some home cooking.

Nearly every team in the Conference is a different team in its own arena, and the Huskies are no exception.

Tad Boyle and the Buffs must deal with Mike Hopkins’ zone, which forces opponents into low percentage shots disguised as open looks.

Yet, Jabari Walker and Evan Battey could thrive in opportunities near the elbows and along the perimeter.

If the duo meet their averages, Colorado figures to come away with the win.

January 27 Game Picks