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UCLA’s 22nd win put Ben Howland in a kissing mood

UCLA’s strong finish to season delighted coach Ben Howland so much he kissed L.A. Daily News writer Jon Gold.

And yes, there is a backstory.

When Gold was conducting a one-on-one interview with Howland back in December, the Bruins were finishing up a rough non-conference schedule that included four straight losses, capped by a home defeat to Montana. So Gold wondered what would happen if UCLA got hot and hit 22, 23 wins.

Howland’s response? “God, I’d kiss you right now. I swear to God. I would come over there and I’d kiss you if we got 22, 23, 24 wins. Are you kidding me? I’d be so happy. Are you kidding? That’s so nice to even project that possibility.”

Saturday, the Bruins won their 22nd game of the season. And Gold was there.

This game will hurt you. But sometimes, it’ll delight you.

Of course, I wasn’t on the receiving end of that kiss

(Thanks to The Dagger).

You also can follow me on Twitter @MikeMillerNBC.