Pac-10 Tournament Bracket Update: Arizona, Washington Survive Semifinals, Face Off For Championship

The Pac-10’s automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament is on the line on Saturday as Washington and Arizona face-off in the Pac-10 Tournament Championship. Both teams took care of business on Friday night, with Arizona sliding by USC and Washington putting away Oregon down the stretch. They battle it out for the third time this season after splitting the regular season series, this time with higher stakes.

It wasn’t a big win, but the Wildcats escaped a USC team without its head coach. Kevin O’Neill didn’t make it to the semifinal matchup after an altercation on Thursday night with an Arizona booster. Derrick Williams scored 20 points for Arizona in 67-62 win in the first of two semifinals.

Washington handled rival Oregon in the nightcap, cruising to a 69-51 win. Freshmen C.J. Wilcox and Terrence Ross led the way with 14 and 13 points, respectively. Isaiah Thomas had a double-double again on Friday night with 10 points and a game-high 12 assists.

The Huskies and Wildcats hit the court with an automatic NCAA Tournament bid on the line in the Pac-10 Championship at 3 p.m. on CBS.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 2 UCLA Bruins, 76-59
No. 3 Washington Huskies def. No. 6 Washington State Cougars, 89-87

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

Arizona def. USC,67-62
Washington def. Oregon, 69-51

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket, Schedule: Washington Huskies, Oregon Ducks Face Off In Second Semifinal

Fresh off an 89-87 win over in-state rival Washington State on Thursday night, the Washington Huskies hit the court again, this time against an out of state rival. The Huskies are set to take-on the Oregon Ducks on Friday evening in the second, and final, semifinal in the Pac-10 Tournament with a berth in the championship on the line. The Huskies are two wins away from ensuring themselves an NCAA Tournament berth, though Thursday’s win may have solidified UW’s spot in the Big Dance.

Oregon made its way to the semifinals with two wins in two days, a daunting task in itself. On Wednesday, the Ducks dispatched Arizona State in the opening round matchup, moving on to face UCLA in the quarterfinals. Oregon continued to roll against the Bruins, shocking UCLA in a 17-point win. The road to the Pac-10 championship is never easy as a play-in team and Oregon is trying to become the first team to play in the championship from that spot.

It’s going to be a late night at Staples Center again as Washington and Oregon bring up the rear, playing in the final game of the evening. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m., but may be delayed depending on how long the first game of the evening runs. Both games will be carried live on FSN.

For more on the Huskies, check out SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound. To connect with Oregon fans, visit SB Nation’s Addicted To Quack.

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
Oregon vs. Washington, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream

2011 Pac-10 Tournament Bracket: USC, Arizona Paired In The First Semifinal Matchup

The semifinals of the Pac-10 Tournament are set, with the USC Trojans and Arizona Wildcats kicking off all the actions at 6 p.m. on Friday evening. USC took care of business on Thursday, easily handling the California Golden Bears in a 14-point win. Arizona, on the other hand, faced a tougher than expected test from Oregon State, but came away a nine-point winner in the other quarterfinal.

USC will be without its head coach on Friday after Kevin O’Neill was suspended for the remainder of the Pac-10 Tournament just hours before the semifinal matchup. O’Neill was involved in an altercation following the Trojans quarterfinal win over Cal on Thursday. O’Neill had previously coach at Arizona, but was succeeded by current Arizona head coach Sean Miller.

The action gets underway at 6 p.m. on FSN from Staples Center. Check out the rest of the bracket and schedule as the Pac-10 Tournament nears a close.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 2 UCLA Bruins, 76-59
No. 3 Washington Huskies def. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 89-87

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
Oregon vs. Washington, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream

Kevin O'Neill Suspended For The Remainder Of The Pac-10 Tournament

USC is moving on in the Pac-10 Tournament, but will be without head coach Kevin O’Neill. Following an altercation with an Arizona booster on Thursday night, O’Neill was suspend by USC and will not be with the team for the remainder of the Pac-10 Tournament. The booster, who reportedly has a history with O’Neill, was spotted by the USC head coach outside a hotel following the Trojan’s win over Cal on Thursday evening. There’s been no word on what sparked the argument, but the two engaged in a verbal altercation.

O’Neill released a statement on Friday apologizing for his behavior and for letting his team down.

“I want to apologize to my team, our university and our fans for my involvement last night in an incident with a fan,” O’Neill said in a statement Friday.

The Trojans are on the NCAA Tournament bubble and likely need to win the Pac-10 Tournament Championship to make it into the Big Dance. USC took the first step on Thursday, easily defeating Cal in the first quarterfinal matchup. On Friday, the test gets tougher as the Trojans take on top-seeded Arizona in the first of two semifinals.

Assistant coach Bob Cantu will handle the coaching duties for the remainder of the tournament. O’Neill said he plans to head home and watch the games from the comfort of the couch with his wife. The Trojans and Wildcats hit the court on Friday night at 6 p.m. on FSN.

For more from Los Angeles, check out the rest of our Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011: Bracket, Schedule, TV Information For Friday's Matchups

The Pac-10 Tournament enters the semifinal round on Friday as four teams hit the court with a shot at the finals on the line. Washington, Oregon, Arizona and USC are left, playing with an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament on the line. It all gets started on Friday evening on FSN.

USC opened the action in the first of four games on Thursday, knocking off the California Golden Bears with smothering defense. The end result was an easy 14-point win and a trip to the semifinals for the Trojans. USC will meet Arizona, who handled a pesky Oregon State team on Thursday with a little help from Derrick Williams.

The action heated up in th evening session as Oregon pulled off the first big upset of the tournament, knocking off UCLA in a blowout. The Ducks were in control for the duration, cruising to a 17-point win behind E.J. Singler’s career-high 24 points.

In the nightcap, Washington and Washington State put on a show as Klay Thompson and Isaiah Thomas battled it out with bragging rights and NCAA Tournament chances on the line. Thompson finished with a Pac-10 Tournament record 43 points, but it wasn’t enough as the Huskies outlasted the Cougars, 89-87. Thomas finished with a team-high 21 points and 12 assists, with all five starters in double-figures.

The semifinals get underway at 6 p.m. on FSN as USC and Arizona tip-off the day’s action. Washington and Oregon — another rivalry game — caps the day at 8:30.

To connect with Washington fans, visit SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound. To visit with Washington State fans, check out CougCenter.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 2 UCLA Bruins, 76-59
No. 3 Washington Huskies def. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 89-87

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
Oregon vs. Washington, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket Update: Klay Thompson Sets Pac-10 Record, Washington Moves On

Klay Thompson gave it all he could for the Washington State Cougars on Thursday night, but the Washington Huskies had just enough in the tank to squeak by in an 89-87 win at Staples Center. Thompson set a new Pac-10 Tournament scoring record, finishing with 43 of the Cougars 89 points. Despite his efforts, the supporting cast for Washington State wasn't able to break the Washington defense as the Huskies' guards stepped up in critical moments to pull-off the win and advance to the semifinals.

Isaiah Thomas was an iron-man for the Huskies, as expected, playing all 40 minutes and finishing with 21 points and 11 assists. All five starters were in double-figures for the Huskies, with Terrence Ross adding 17, C.J. Wilcox and Matthew Bryan-Amaning adding 16 apiece and Justin Holiday pitching in 12. Holiday had a double-double, grabbing a team-high 10 rebounds.

Thompson carried the Cougars, connecting on 8-14 threes and 15-29 from the field. DeAngelo Casto just missed a double-double, finishing with 13 points and nine rebounds. Faisal Aden added 17 points off the bench. Outside of those three, scoring was few and far between as the Huskies swarming defense slowed the Cougars all night.

For Washington State, hopes of an NCAA Tournament bid are over as the Cougs head hope and await their NIT seeding. Washington likely locked up an NCAA bid and will move on to face Oregon on Friday night.

Here's the full schedule and bracket for Friday's games.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 2 UCLA Bruins, 76-59
No. 3 Washington Huskies def. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 89-87

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
Oregon vs. Washington, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket Update: Oregon Stuns UCLA, 76-59

The Oregon Ducks weren’t expected to make a lot of noise in the Pac-10 Tournament, especially with the UCLA Bruins waiting for them in the second round. But the Ducks took control early at Staples Center in Los Angeles, smacking the Bruins in the mouth and never taking their foot off the gas in a 76-59 win.

Oregon was unconscious from the field at times, shooting 50 percent while holding the Bruins to a 34.5 percent shooting. The Ducks took a 14-point lead into the half and never looked back, outplaying UCLA throughout and pulling off the upset over the second-ranked Bruins.

E.J. Singler finished with a career-high 24 points on shooting, including from beyond the arc and from the free throw line. Malcolm Armstead added 13 points and Garrett Sim chipped in 10. Singler also finished with a team-high eight rebounds for the Ducks.

Tyler Honeycutt was about the only threat for the Bruins on the offensive end, scoring a team-high 19 points. Reeves Nelson added seven points, with Jerime Anderson chipping in eight off the bench. Malcolm Lee, hampered by a knee injury, finished with just six points.

Oregon moves on to face the winner of Thursday night’s late game between Washington and Washington State. The Bruins are still safely in the tournament, with time to rest as they head home following Thursday’s loss.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 2 UCLA Bruins, 76-59
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
Oregon vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket Update: Arizona Rallies To Drop Oregon State, 78-69

The Oregon State Beavers jumped out to a surprising lead early in the first half before the Arizona Wildcats came storming back, showing why they were the top-ranked Pac-10 team this season. Arizona’s talent was on display as Pac-10 player of the year Derrick Williams dominated from all over the floor in a 78-69 win to advance to the semifinals of the Pac-10 Tournament.

The game turned in the second half when Oregon State forward Joe Burton, who had nine points, five rebounds and four assists, was ejected for throwing a high elbow then slapping an Arizona player. At the same time, Jared Cunningham, the Beavers leading scorer against Arizona, was forced to leave the court for an extended period of time with severe leg cramps. Without Cunningham and Burton, Oregon State was punch-less on both ends of the floor as Arizona pushed its lead further into double-digits.

Pac-10 player of the year Derrick Williams led the way for the Wildcats with 22 points and seven rebounds. Williams put on a shooting display, hitting 5-6 from three-point range and 8-12 overall. Kevin Parrom and Lamont Jones were also in double-figures with 13 points apiece. Hill finished with a game-high 12 rebounds.

Jared Cunningham, back in a starting role, and Ahmad Starks led the Beavers again on Thursday afternoon, finishing with 23 and 17 points, respectively. Devon Collier and Omari Johnson each had a team-high six rebounds, as well. Outside of Cunningham and Starks, the Beavers were unable to find any kind of offense, a problem compounded by the loss of Burton, taking away Oregon State’s inside presence.

Arizona moves on to face USC in the first of two semifinals on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on FSN.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears, 70-56
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats def No. 9 Oregon State, 78-69
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. No. 7 Oregon 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket And Results: USC Runs Away From Cal, 70-56

The USC Trojans came firing out of the gate in the second half, using a 10-2 run early in the half to open up a 17-point lead over the California Golden Bears in quarterfinal action at the Pac-10 Tournament. With a comfortable lead, USC was able to cruise down the stretch in a 70-56 win.

It was all about the defense for the Trojans, who forced Cal into 16 turnovers and held the Bears to 42.6 percent shooting from the field and from 28.6 percent three-point range as the Bears converted just 2-7 shots from beyond the arc. USC was aggressive on the offensive end, as well, getting to the line 18 times, converting 12 free throws.

Alex Stepheson was a monster for the Trojans, recording a double-double with 14 points and a game-high 16 rebounds. Donte Smith added 14 points, Jio Fontan had 12 and Maurice Jones provided a spark off the bench, scoring 14 points, as well. Fontan also finished with a team-high four assists.

With Jorge Gutierrez off all game long, scoring just four points on 2-10 shooting, Cal was unable to establish a rhythm or find an answer for the Trojans’ scoring runs. Allen Crabbe, the Pac-10 freshman of the year, led the way for Cal, scoring a team-high 21 points. Richard Solomon added 11 points and was joined in double-figures by Brandon Smith, who had 10.

The Trojans move on to face the winner of the next quarterfinal matchup, Arizona or Oregon State, at Staples Center on Saturday at 6 p.m. Cal heads home to regroup before taking a likely bid to the NIT on Sunday.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans def No. 5 California Golden Bears,
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 9 Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. No. 7 Oregon 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC vs. Arizona/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Results: USC Leads Cal At The Half, 35-27

The second day of the Pac-10 Tournament is underway at Staples Center in Los Angeles as USC and Cal duke it out on the hardwood. As expected, it’s been a close game through the first half, with scoring at a premium as defense has dominated the first 20 minutes. Cal jumped out to an early lead, but USC reeled the Bears in down the stretch, taking a 35-27 lead into the half after a late run triggered by strong defense.

Shooting numbers were down for both teams as the Bears 37.9 shot percent and the Trojans shot 39.3 percent. USC was able to find its way to the free throw line, but had trouble converting there, hitting just seven of 11, a 63.6 percent clip.

Pac-10 freshman of the year Allen Crabb led the way for the Bears with eight points. Markhuri Sanders-Frison was an animal on the boards, grabbing a team-high seven rebounds. Brandon Smith had six points and Richard Solomon added five off the bench. Cal is dealing with plenty of foul trouble, though, as Jorge Gutierrez has three, Harper Kamp has two and Sanders-Frison has two, as well.

Nikola Vucevic had a slow first half for the Trojans as Harper Kamp blanketed him in the low post. Vucevic finished with just one point, on 0-3 shooting, before taking a seat with foul trouble, leaving the Trojans shot-handed in the post. Donte Smith had nine first half points, Jio Fontan added eight and Marcus Simmons chipped in seven. Fontan and Simmons were tenacious on the perimeter, harassing the Cal guards throughout the half.

The winner moves on to face the winner of the next matchup at Staples Center, either Arizona or Oregon State in the semifinals on Saturday evening.

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket: USC, Cal First Matchup In Day Full Of Basketball

The quarterfinals of the Pac-10 Tournament kick-off at Staples Center at the stroke of noon on Thursday as the USC Trojans and California Golden Bears hit the floor in Los Angeles. The Trojans and Bears finished in a dead-heat in the Pac-10 standings, compiling 10-8 records in conference play. USC holds a slight edge overall with an 18-13 record, half a game better than Cal’s 17-13 record on the year. Both teams are just off the bubble, making Thursday’s matchup crucial for each team’s tournament hopes.

On paper, the Bears and Trojans are about equal, splitting the season series in Pac-10 play. Cal beat USC in Los Angeles in January and the Trojans returned the favor in Berkley a month later. The two head to a somewhat neutral floor, though USC should have a home-court advantage, to settle the score with a berth in the Pac-10 Tournament quarterfinals on the line.

It all gets started at noon on FSN. Tune in throughout the day for wall-to-wall Pac-10 hoops action on FSN.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 9 Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. No. 7 Oregon 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC/California vs. Arizona/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011: Bracket, Schedule, TV Information For Quarterfinal Matchups

The first day of the Pac-10 Tournament is in the books and the Oregon schools are moving on to the quarterfinals after polishing off their play-in games. Oregon State took down Stanford in the first opening round matchup, surviving a late run by the Cardinal to advance. The Oregon Ducks capped the night with a win over Arizona State after nearly coughing up a 20-point lead late in the second half.

On Thursday, the top-six teams come to play after receiving a free pass into the quarterfinal round. The top-seeded Arizona Wildcats make their grand entrance, battling Oregon State, the lowest remaining seed. Second-seeded UCLA gets Oregon State, the other play-in winner.

In the late action, in-state rivals Washington and Washington State hit the court amid a myriad of off-court distractions. Washington is dealing with the suspension of Venoy Overton and concerns about a concussion sustained by Justin Holiday. Washington State's Klay Thompson will be back from a suspension of his own while point guard Reggie Moore is expected to play despite an ankle injury that sidelined him for the Cougs' regular season finale last Saturday.

It all gets started at noon as the California Golden Bears and USC Trojan begin a day full of hoops at Staples Center in Los Angeles. FSN has wall-to-wall coverage throughout the day, capped by the third meeting of the Cougars and Huskies this year.

Here's the bracket as it stands now, including Thursday's schedule and TV information.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-69

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 9 Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. No. 7 Oregon 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC/California vs. Arizona/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Basketball Tournament 2011 Bracket Update: Oregon Moving On With Win Over Arizona State

The first day of the Pac-10 Tournament came to a close on Wednesday night as the Oregon Ducks and Arizona State Sun Devils duked it out at Staples Center in Los Angeles. The Ducks took a nine-point lead into the half before taking charge in the second, leading by as many as 19 at one point. But Arizona State came roaring back, setting up a closer than expected finish with a late run.

It came down to free throws for the Ducks as Arizona State head coach Herb Sendek chose to extend the game with fouls at the three minute mark. It wasn't enough, however, as Oregon was solid at the line and the Sun Devils were unable to convert a barrage of threes to close the deficit.

E.J. Singler led the way for the Ducks with a game-high 22 points. Malcolm Armstead and Garrett Sim were also in double-figures, scoring 11 and 10 points respectively. Johnathan Loyd added nine points off the bench, connecting on 7-8 free throws. Tyrone Nared had a team-high nine rebounds and Armstead added five assists.

Trent Lockett matched Singler step-for-step, equaling the Oregon forward's game-high 22 points for the Sun Devils. Lockett also finished with a team-high five rebounds and five assists in the loss. Rihard Kuksiks and Jamelle McMillan added 11 points apiece, as well. The Arizona State bench was active all night, with six reserves logging significant minutes and combining to score 23 points.

Oregon gets back to work on Thursday evening against the UCLA Bruins at 6:00 p.m. in the third of four quarterfinal matchups.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks def No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 76-60

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon, 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC/California vs. Arizona/Stanford/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon/Arizona State vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Basketball Tournament 2011 Bracket: Oregon State Hangs On To Beat Stanford, 69-67

It wasn't pretty, but the first game of the 2011 Pac-10 Tournament is in the books at Staples Center in Los Angeles, with the Oregon State Beavers outlasting the Stanford Cardinal, 69-67. It started off slow, with Stanford shooting just over 11 percent in the half as Oregon State took a 26-18 lead at the break.

Stanford recovered in the second half, finishing the game shooting 32.8 percent from the field. Oregon State was just a bit better, shooting at a 25.7 percent clip for the game. The damage was done at the free throw line with Oregon State and Stanford combining to shoot 63 free throws. Oregon State hit 25 of 35 while Stanford connected on 19 of 28.

Stanford narrowed the deficit to three with a minute to play, but Dwight Powell missed a point-blank lay-in, following the mistake up with a foul that sent Jared Cunningham to the line for two shots. Cunningham hit one of two from the charity stripe to make it a two-possession game with under a minute to play. With the shooting night the Cardinal were having, a four-point deficit seemed insurmountable.

It became a free throw shooting contest for the Beavers as Stanford frantically tried to close the gap with quick three-pointers as time wound down. Stanford was content to trade twos for threes, with Jeremy Green almost single-handedly keeping the Cardinal close with his shooting.

Stanford caught a break down two after Cunningham missed his second free throw as the Beavers fouled Mann on the rebound, sending him to the line with a chance to tie. He couldn't convert, however, and Oregon State was able to seal it at the line as the Beavers hung on down the stretch.

It was all about bench play for the Beavers as Devon Collier, Ahmad Starks and Jared Cunningham led the way in a reserve role. The three were the only Beavers in double-figures, combining to 58 score of Oregon State's 69 points on the night. Cunningham scored 24 points, including crucial free throws down the stretch. Collier added 15 points and Starks chipped in 15. Joe Burton was the only starter to contribute significantly, finishing with seven points and a game-high 14 rebounds. 

It was the other way around for the Cardinal, with the bench contributing next to nothing -- seven points to be exact -- as the starters took on the scoring burden. Jeremy Green scored a team-high 25 points, 20 of which came in the second half. It was his late three-point shooting -- Green set Pac-10 Tournament records for three-pointers attempted (15) and made (seven) -- that kept Stanford in the game. 

Oregon State moves on to face the Arizona Wildcats in the quarterfinals at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday at Staples Center.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 9 Oregon State Beavers def. No. 8 Stanford Cardinal, 69-67
No. 7 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon/Arizona State, 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC/California vs. Arizona/Stanford/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon/Arizona State vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Basketball Tournament 2011 Scores: Oregon State Leads Stanford After Horrendous First Half

The Stanford Cardinal and Oregon State Beavers were involved in the basketball equivalent of a pillow fight during the first half of their opening round game of the Pac-10 Tournament at Staples Center on Wednesday night. At times, it looked like neither team could hit a shot, as the Beavers and Cardinal combined to lay bricks in astonishing numbers. When horn mercilessly signaled the end of the half, Oregon State held a 26-18 lead, thanks in large part to the Cardinal’s horrific shooting.

Stanford connected on just four of 34 shots, an 11.8 percent clip. With three minutes left the Cardinals had only made three of 30 field goals, with Oregon State only hitting eight shots of its own. Whether it was shooting in an unfamiliar environment or just poor shooting overall, it made for a terribly uninteresting half. Only a late run by the Cardinal, and a slump by Oregon State, dug Stanford out of its hole, closing the gap just before the half.

Ahmad Starks was about the only offensive threat in the first half, scoring a game-high 11 points for the Beavers off the bench. Devon Callier added seven points, also coming off the bench to pick up the slack left by the Oregon State starters. The starting five combined for four first-half just points.

Amazingly, Stanford was worse, with Dwight Powell and Jeremy Green’s five points pacing the team. Unlike the Beavers, the Cardinal reserves were unable to provide a boost as the bench players added just five points to the mix. With as many missed shots as there were, rebounds were aplenty, with Powell grabbing five and Anthony Brown pulling down five, as well.

With Staples Center empty enough to hear the players and coaches communicate on the coach, it raises the question: If a bad basketball game is played in a tournament setting and nobody sees it, did it actually happen? Tune-in to FSN if you’re a fan of carnage as the Cardinal and Beavers hit the floor for the second half in their Pac-10 Tournament over. For a less painful way to keep track of the game, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 Basketball Tournament StoryStream.

2011 Pac-10 Basketball Tournament: Stanford Cardinal, Oregon State Beavers Set To Open The Action

The Pac-10 Tournament tips off at 6 p.m. on Wednesday with the opening round of play at Staples Center. The Stanford Cardinal and Oregon State Beavers have the honors, playing in the 8/9 play-in game with the right to play the Arizona Wildcats on the table. Wednesday serves as an appetizer for Thursday’s wall-to-wall hoops bonanza in Los Angeles, with all eight remaining teams in action and games taking place throughout the day.

Stanford comes into the matchup at an even .500 on the year, holding a 15-15 record under head coach Johnny Dawkins. The Cardinal finished eighth in the Pac-10 with a 7-11 record. Stanford picked up its biggest win of the year early on in Pac-10 play with a two-point win over the Washington Huskies. The Cardinal also did what Oregon State couldn’t on Feb. 26 with an 11-point win over Seattle University.

Oregon State has struggled under head coach Craig Robinson, finishing the season with a 10-19 record. The Beavers dropped a few cringe-worthy games during the non-conference slate, falling to Seattle and Texas Southern in back-to-back. Oregon State also lost to Utah Valley and George Washington as the Beavers’ season got off on the wrong foot.

Oregon State and Stanford split the season series, with Wednesday night’s game serving as a rubber-match between the two. It all gets started at 6 p.m., live on FSN.

For more on the tournament, check out the rest of our Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream.

2011 Pac-10 Tournament: Reggie Moore Expected To Play As Cougars Battle Huskies

The Washington State Cougars should have a full compliment of players at the Pac-10 Tournament in Los Angeles as they take on the Washington Huskies in a quarterfinal matchup on Thursday night. Klay Thompson, suspended for the Cougars final regular season game last Saturday, was reinstated earlier in the week and is expected to start on Thursday. Additionally, Reggie Moore, sidelined with an ankle injury sustained last week, has been practicing with the team and looks like he’s ready to go.

The Spokesman-Reviews Vince Grippi tweeted the news on Moore’s injury and status for the Pac-10 Tournament.

Some WSU injury news. Reggie Moore practiced Wednesday is expected to play tomorrow against Washington.

Moore was a big reason the Cougars were able to complete a season sweep of the Huskies, creating off the dribble while facilitating the Washington State offense. In the two meetings, Moore scored 28 and nine assists. Without Venoy Overton, who’s suspended for the Pac-10 Tournament, Moore should have room to roam against the Huskies on Thursday.

While Washington State comes into the tournament healthy and ready to go, the news hasn’t been so good for Washington. The Huskies will be missing Overton and may not have the services of Justin Holiday, who’s dealing with a concussion sustained last Saturday.

The Huskies and Cougars hit the floor at Staples Center in the Pac-10 Tournament on Thursday at 8:30 p.m. For more on the matchup, check out our Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream. To connect with Washington State fans, visit SB Nation’s CougCenter.

2011 Pac-10 Tournament: Bracket, Schedule, TV Information, Odds For First Round

The first round of the Pac-10 Tournament kicks off at Staples center in Los Angeles on Wednesday with the Stanford Cardinal, Oregon State Beavers, Oregon Ducks and Arizona State Sun Devils all in action. The four teams are stuck in the play-in games by virtue of their conference record, placing each team in the bottom four. The two winners move on to face Arizona and UCLA, the top-two teams in the Pac-10 this season, on Thursday in the Pac-10 Tournament quarterfinals.

Here's the full schedule of for Wednesday, including TV information and a bracket.

Schedule: The action kicks off late, almost ensuring the East Coast won't be able to see any of the games. Stanford and Oregon State tip-off at 6 p.m., followed by Oregon and Arizona State half an hour after the first game ends, as early as 8:30. With games running until at least 10:30 p.m., it's going to be a late night.

Location: Staples Center in Los Angeles has the hosting duties again this year. Keep an eye on attendance as empty seats are typically prevalent, especially in games that don't involve UCLA or USC.

What's at stake?: The winner of the Pac-10 Tournament takes home the conference's automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament. While Arizona and UCLA are likely in, and Washington is in as of now, teams such as USC and Washington State need the Pac-10 automatic bid to make it into March Madness. The result is hard-fought games with teams fighting for their tournament lives.

Who's favored tonight?: The higher-seeded teams are favored in the opening round games. Oregon is favored by one-point in what's expected to be a close matchup. Arizona State swept the Ducks in the regular season despite finishing with just four conference wins. Stanford is favored over Oregon State with a point spread of 4.5. 

Finally, here's the full bracket.

First round: Wednesday, March 9

No. 8 Stanford Cardinal vs. No. 9 Oregon State Beavers, 6 p.m. FSN
No. 7 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 10

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. Stanford/Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon/Arizona State, 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Semifinals: Friday, March 11

USC/California vs. Arizona/Stanford/Oregon State, 6 p.m., FSN
UCLA/Oregon/Arizona State vs. Washington/Washington State, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Finals: Saturday, March 12

Semifinal winners, 3 p.m., CBS

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket: Oregon Looks For Revenge Against Arizona State

The Oregon Ducks and Arizona State Sun Devils square-off in the second, and final, game of Wednesday Pac-10 Tournament opening round at Staples Center, playing for the right to face UCLA in the quarterfinals. The Oregon Ducks hold the higher seed, finishing seventh in the Pac-10 standings this season, but you wouldn't know it looking at the head-to-head matchups. Arizona State struggled through the Pac-10 schedule, winning just four times, two of which came against the Ducks.

Oregon saw a resurgence under new head coach Dana Altman in what was expected to be a down year, with many predicting the Ducks to finish at the bottom of the conference. Altman brought a hard-nosed style to Eugene that's paid immediate dividends in the form of wins, and though Oregon finished the regular season on the skids, fans are excited for the future.

On paper, the Ducks and Sun Devils are just about even, with each posting similar offensive and defensive efficiency ratings. Oregon holds a slight edge on the offensive end, with both teams in a dead heat defensively, each holding opponents under one point per possession. The Ducks shooting has been dreadful at times, as well, with Oregon posting an eFG% of 47.3, among the worst in the nation.

For Oregon, it's all about the inside presence, with sixth-year senior Joevan Catron emerging as the biggest offensive threat this season. Catron uses the most possessions, draws fouls and has an excellent free throw rate in addition to being Oregon's best rebounder. Trent Lockett and Ty Abbott are the cornerstones of the Arizona State offense, with Lockett using the most possessions on the team.

Tune in to FSN at 8:30 p.m. as the Ducks and Sun Devils duke it out in the first round of the Pac-10 Tournament.

First round

No. 8 Stanford Cardinal vs. No. 9 Oregon State Beavers, 6 p.m. FSN
No. 7 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Quarterfinals

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. Stanford/Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon/Arizona State, 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket: Stanford, Oregon State Open Play On Wednesday

The first round of the Pac-10 Tournament, or what's become the play-in round, begins on Wednesday as the Stanford Cardinal and Oregon State Beavers open play at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Stanford comes in as the higher seed, finishing eighth in the Pac-10 with a 7-11 record. Oregon State, on the other hand, finished ninth, compiling a 5-13 record in Pac-10 play and 10-19 record overall.

On paper, the Stanford Cardinal are the better team, though they fell the last time these two teams met, losing to the Beavers by seven in Corvallis. Stanford possess a better defense, holding opponents to an efficiency rating of 98.6, as well as a better offense, with a 103.9 efficiency rating itself. Oregon State, on the other hand, gives up just over one point per possession (100.8 efficiency) and puts up just over a point on the offensive end (101.1 OEff).

Oregon State's effective field goal defense has been atrocious as the Beavers allow opponents to shoot 54.3 percent by measure of eFG, one of the worst marks in the nation. The Beavers steal percentage is about the only positive, a product of head coach Craig Robinson's system. The Beavers 13.6 steal percentage ranks among the best in the nation, no shock to anyone who's watched Oregon State operate.

For the Beavers, it's all about Jared Cunningham. The athletic wing posted a 106.1 ORtg this season, the best mark on the team. Josh Owens and Jeremy Green are Stanford's threats on the offensive end, each posting ORtgs above 100.

Stanford is the clear favorite in Wednesday's matchup, and should move-on to face Arizona in the Pac-10 Tournament quarterfinals. It all gets underway on Wednesday at 6 p.m. on FSN, live from Staple Center.

Here's the rest of the schedule for Wednesday games, and the bracket for the first two round.

First round

No. 8 Stanford Cardinal vs. No. 9 Oregon State Beavers, 6 p.m. FSN
No. 7 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 10 Arizona State Sun Devils, 8:30 p.m., FSN

Quarterfinals

No. 4 USC Trojans vs. No. 5 California Golden Bears, noon, FSN
No. 1 Arizona Wildcats vs. Stanford/Oregon State, 2:30, FSN
No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon/Arizona State, 6 p.m., FSN
No. 3 Washington Huskies vs. No. 6 Washington State Cougs, 8:30 p.m., FSN

For more on the tournament, including the latest news and bracket updates, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 tournament StoryStream.

2011 Pac-10 Tournament: Justin Holiday Questionable With Head Injury

The Washington Huskies may be without the services of Justin Holiday, the team’s best defender, as they open the Pac-10 Tournament in Los Angeles against the Washington State Cougars on Thursday. Holiday, who suffered a head injury in the Huskies regular season finale against the USC Trojans, is a game-time decision for Thursday’s game. Washington is sitting on the bubble, and may need at least one Pac-10 Tournament win to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

Lorenzo Romar updated the status of Holiday at his weekly press conference on Tuesday. While Holiday’s status is unclear, Romar is hopeful he’ll be able to give it a go on Thursday. The report comes from Christian Caple, of The Seattle PI, on Twitter.

Holiday could be game-time decision on Thursday. Romar on Holiday: “My thinking is that he’ll play.”

Holiday is the Huskies’ best defender, and would likely draw the task of guarding Klay Thompson on Thursday. In 2011, he improved on the offensive end of the floor, as well, posting a 120 ORtg with a 56.5 effective field goal percentage. Losing his services would force Romar to explore other options on the perimeter, with C.J. Wilcox, Terrence Ross and Scott Suggs both options to share the minutes Holiday would’ve used.

We’ll be back with updates on Holiday’s availability and the loss of guard Venoy Overton, suspended after being charged with furnishing alcohol to a minor, as more becomes available. For more on the tournament, check out our 2011 Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream. To connect with Washington fans, visit SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Bracket And Schedule: Opening Round Games An Uphill Battle

The road to the Pac-10 Tournament championship is a rocky one for the bottom four teams in the conference. Instead of a free pass to the quarterfinals of the tournament, given to the top-six finishers in the regular season, Oregon State, Oregon, Stanford and Arizona State have the added hardship of playing an opening round game, set to take place on Wednesday at Staples Center.

While every Pac-10 team has a shot at the conference tournament title, and automatic NCAA Tournament bid, the regular season is not forgotten. The bye, in essence, given to the top-six keeps each team fresh, without the possibility of playing four games in as many days -- a daunting task for any team.

The top-two finishers -- Arizona and UCLA this season -- receive the benefit of facing one of those four play-in teams. The Wednesday night game followed by a Thursday afternoon or evening game leaves little time for recovery, putting those bottom-four teams at a severe disadvantage. Since the Pac-10 Tournament expanded to include all 10 teams in 2006, only two teams ranked among the bottom four have made it to the semifinals -- Oregon in 2006, California in 2008 -- with neither making it to the championship game.

Seeding matters, especially in a year where the top and middle of the pack are so closely bunched together. For Oregon State, Oregon, Stanford and Arizona State, the odds are stacked against a dream run through the tournament, though stranger things have happened in March.

The Pac-10 Tournament gets underway on Wednesday evening with the opening round games. Here's the schedule and bracket for Wednesday's matchups.

Wednesday, March 9

6:00 p.m.: No. 8 Stanford Cardinal vs. No. 9 Oregon State Beavers
8:30 p.m. or 30 minutes after the conclusion of the previous game: No. 7 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 10Arizona State Sun Devils

Both matchups will be televised live on FSN. For more on the games, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream. To connect with Washington and WSU fans, check out SB Nation's UW Dawg Poundand CougCenter.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011: Malcolm Lee Knee Injury Could Damage UCLA Bruins' Chances

The UCLA Bruins’ Pac-10 Tournament chances were dealt a significant blow on Tuesday with word that All-Pac-10 guard Malcolm Lee has a slight tear in his left knee. Lee left the Bruins regular season finale against the Washington State Cougars in the second half after injuring his knee, but returned after a trip to the locker room. Upon further evaluation, it was revealed Lee had the small tear in his knee, throwing his status for the Pac-10 Tournament into question.

On Tuesday morning, ESPN’s Diamond Lueng tweeted the news about Lee’s injury, but added he is expected to give it a go in the Pac-10 Tournament.

UCLA guard Malcolm Lee has a “small tear” in his left knee, but is expected to play through it, according to coach Ben Howland.

While he will play, and likely wear a brace on the injured knee, it’s unclear how effective he’ll be as the Bruins work their way through the tournament. With the potential for three games in three days, the strain on his injured knee could be significant and comes with the risk of further injury. The Bruins are projected to be in the NCAA Tournament field no matter what, making his long-term health critical to UCLA’s aspirations for a deep run.

A quick look at the Pac-10 Tournament bracket reveals the Bruins face the winner of Wednesday night’s Oregon-Arizona State game in the Pac-10 Touranment. If UCLA wins that game, Washington or Washington State await in the semifinals. Both the Huskies and Cougars are on the NCAA Tournament bubble and facing a UCLA team without Lee, or with a limited knee, could be beneficial for either team.

For more on the tournament, check out the rest of our 2011 Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011 Odds: Arizona, UCLA Favored, Washington Has Solid Odds

The oddsmakers went with chalk while predicting the Pac-10 Tournament champion, installing No. 1 seed Arizona and No. 2 seed UCLA as the co-favorites to bring home the conference’s automatic NCAA Tournament bid. The Bruins and Wildcats were locked in a tight battle for the conference championship, with Arizona edging UCLA at the wire to take home the top-seed in the Pac-10 Tournament. The two schools have the added benefit of playing against two of the lower-teams in the tournament, both of which have to play their way into the bracket.

Here’s the full odds with a hearty hat-tip to SB Nation Bay Area.

Arizona: 2-1
UCLA: 2-1
Washington: 5-2
USC: 5-1
Cal: 10-1
Washington State: 10-1
Field (Any other team): 15-1

The Huskies are right there among the favorites, but have to get by Washington State in the first round. The Cougars have given the Huskies fits this year, sweeping the season series. USC, the fourth-seeded team, is also amongst the favorites, checking in with 5-1 odds. Cal could also sneak in, holding 10-1 odds, the same as the Cougars.

The Pac-10 was full of parity this season, with a logjam in the middle of the standings all year. That parity creates an interesting tournament, with at least eight teams holding a somewhat realistic chance of taking home the NCAA Tournament bid.

It all kicks off on Wednesday with the opening round at Staples Center. For more on the games, check out our Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream. For more on the Huskies and Cougars, check out SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound and CougCenter.

Pac-10 Tournament 2011: Bracket, Schedule, TV Information And More

The Pac-10 Tournament is set to get underway on Wednesday at Staples Center in Los Angeles, with an automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament on the line. With Selection Sunday on the horizon, all 10 teams are battling for a spot in the postseason, with the conference race as murky as ever, even after the regular season. Arizona brought home the Pac-10 title, and No. 1 seed in the tournament, followed by UCLA and Washington. It all begins on Wednesday evening with two play-in games, featuring the Pac-10's bottom-four teams.

Here's the full schedule, bracket, TV information and what's at stake.

Schedule: The opening rounds get underway on Wednesday at 6 and 8:30 p.m. The Pac-10 Tournament runs four days, with Thursday filled with action as games start at noon, running until roughly 10:30 p.m. The semifinals tip-off on Friday before the Pac-10 automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament is handed out on Saturday.

Location: As always, the Pac-10 Tournament will be hosted by the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The location has been much maligned by fans of Pac-10 teams, with low attendance and a generally disappointing atmosphere noticeable every year.

TV information: FSN will broadcast the opening round, beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. On Thursday, it's a full slate of action, again on FSN, beginning at noon, running all the way through the last game at 8:30 p.m. FSN has the semifinal matchups beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday before CBS takes over, broadcasting the finals on Saturday at 3 p.m.

Seeding: The Pac-10 Tournament seeds were determined by order of finish during the regular season. In the event of a tie, head-to-head record and record from the top of the conference standings down were used to decide the seeding, in that order. Arizona is No. 1, followed by UCLA, Washington, USC, California and Washington State. Oregon, Stanford, Oregon State and Arizona State must play Thursday in the opening round.

Bracket:

For more on the games, stay with out Pac-10 Tournament StoryStream. For more on the Huskies and Cougars, check out SB Nation's UW Dawg Pound and CougCenter.