After weeks of inconsistent play, Cedric Bozeman finally
silenced his critics ““ for now.
The former McDonald’s All-American has been inconsistent
in his two years as a Bruin, but two clutch game-winning free
throws against Georgetown could mark the turning point in his
career.
“Ced can be a better player for the adversity he went
through in his freshman and sophomore years,” Steve Lavin
said. “The table has been set for his junior and senior
seasons.”
Last season, Bozeman sat out seven games with a knee injury and
didn’t find his rhythm until the postseason. He helped upset
No. 1 seed Cincinnati in the second round.
After 19 games this year, his gutsy play is helping to forge a
new reputation.
In Saturday’s 71-70 victory over the Hoyas, Bozeman
penetrated the paint, made shots, and opened opportunities for his
teammates. He repeatedly got the opposition into foul trouble, and
of course, converted the two crucial free throws when he had
to.
“That’s what you play basketball for,” he
said.
Over the past four games ““ all of which have been close
““ Bozeman has made significant contributions.
“I’m being more aggressive and trying to make
plays,” Bozeman said. “When I’m in the game, I
need to stay patient and play hard.”
His teammates have also seen a change in his play recently.
“I think everyone has found an edge,” senior Jason
Kapono said. “Ced is playing well, and, making those free
throws, shows something about his character.”
With the Pac-10 tournament rapidly approaching, Bozeman is
prepared to take his team to the next level. “The more I stay
aggressive, the more positive things will happen,” he said.
“The confidence factor is very high.”