Listen Now!  (3:03 Minutes)

Download the MP3  (1.0 MB)

• More LA Daily News Podcasts
• Podcast/iTunes FAQ
• Download the Latest iTunes Software

UCLA's Mathewson a hot shot with a title on line

Imagine making the winning shot at the NCAA Championships.

Now imagine doing it twice.

For Courtney Mathewson, imagination isn't necessary.

In each of the past two years, Mathewson has scored the winning goal to help UCLA capture the national title in women's water polo.

The top-ranked Bruins (30-0 overall) will be looking to win an unprecedented fourth straight championship in the sport when the NCAA Tournament begins today at Stanford.

In the 2006 title game, Mathewson scored with one second remaining as UCLA beat rival USC 9-8. Last year, her third goal of the game gave the Bruins a 5-3 lead, and they held on to beat Stanford 5-4 for the championship.

"I got lucky the last two years," Mathewson said. "I just happened to score the last goal."

For such a clutch player, the accolades have come slowly   Read Full Article...