It took some doing but we were able to confirm that power forward Lorenzo Mata (6-8, 200) from South Gate, Calif., has indeed committed to UCLA. Mata fits the bill of a big strong guy with a lot of athleticism. Maybe even more important is the character of this young man.

Mata had a lot of work to do this summer in the classroom. That Mata succeeded is a testimony to his desire and his ability to sacrifice to get the job done.

Mata is a blue collar guy who rolls up his sleeves and gets to work.

“UCLA was his dream school,” South Gate assistant coach Lester Sanchez said. “He had a great summer. Howland saw him in New Jersey at the ABCD camp and liked what he saw.”

“The amazing thing about Lorenzo is has only been playing basketball for three years,” Sanchez said. “He is going to get so much better.”

“Lorenzo has great hands, can jump out of the gym and has a soft shooting touch,” Sanchez said. “His best strengths are on the defensive end of the floor.”

“Lorenzo is a tremendous shot blocker and rebounder,” Sanchez said. “The timing on his jump is uncanny.”

“Another thing we love about Lorenzo is he’s a hard worker, a great listener and very coachable,” Sanchez said. “The sky is the limit for his potential.”

Texas Tech head coach Bob Knight liked Mata’s skills so much that he visited with him during the contact period. Arizona State, Washington, Utah and New Mexico were also very interested in the services of Mata.

Mata averaged 25 points, 18 rebounds and seven blocks a game as a junior.

More good work being done by Ben Howland and staff.