UCLA Basketball: 5 reasons why the Bruins will be better than USC in 2018-19

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LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 15: Cody Riley of the UCLA Men’s Baskeball team speaks to the media during a press conference at Pauley Pavilion on November 15, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. Riley and two teammates have been suspended from the team after allegedly shoplifting while on a school trip to China. (Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) /

3) Breakout stars

Speaking of newcomers, UCLA will also receive boosts from Cody Riley and Jalen Hill, talented players who were suspended for all of last season following the shoplifting incident in China – and are why both Brown and O’Neal will likely come off the bench.

I think Riley is poised to have a breakout season and will be a dominant interior force for the Bruins. The 6-10, 265-pounder is equal parts strong and athletic, making him a menace on the glass and giving him great upside defensively. Plus, he’s a good enough passer and has a reliable mid-range jumper, meaning he can be effective in the high post as well as on the block.

Alford has a lot of frontcourt depth to work with, but no one else has the size and skill set of Riley. I’d expect him to become their most reliable interior player because of everything he brings to the table.

Of course, that’s not to sleep on Hill, who may earn a starting spot alongside Riley inside. The 6-10, 230-pounder is an excellent leaper and should be a valuable defensive asset, as his length and quickness give him the ability to defend smaller opponents on the perimeter.

Both of these players are battling for playing time, but both should expect to have major roles for the Bruins.

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