Chris O'Meara - AP

3 months ago: Mississippi State guard Barry Stewart (22) goes up for a shot over DePaul guard Michael Bizoukas (0) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, in Tampa, Fla. Mississippi State won the game 76-45. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

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The men's basketball team is out in California today and will be facing off against the UCLA Bruins in the Wooden Classic. Tip-off is at 3:30 pm CT and will be televised on Fox Sports. Here are a few links talking about today's matchup.

The L.A. Times previews the game and also talks about the status of Reeves Nelson after his injury (eye) against the Jayhawks last week.

Mississippi State's Jarvis Varnado, a 6-9 forward, leads the nation with 5.3 blocks a game.

But Howland said his team will face other problems when it comes to the Bulldogs' defense.

"They are long and athletic," he said. "They can get out and pressure you, get after you. They get after the ball."

Mississippi State has held opponents to 38.7% shooting this season.

The NEMS Daily Journal gives a little bit of info as well.