Rudy Gay was terrific in UConn's 80-76 victory over Pittsburgh.

He soared through the air for transition dunks that are highlight material for years to come (the one-handed windmill flush on the break). But, better yet, he took over the game when needed with his scoring (10 of the first 14 points). He finished with 22 points, making 9-of-16 shots. Yes, he took the most shots, something that has been implored of him by the staff at times. He came up with four key steals and a block. Sure, he didn't rebound as well (three) but he was the standout guy on a team that has had a rotation in the spotlight all season.

"I would say so," Gay said of agreeing that this was his most complete game of the season. "I felt like I could be the player I could be [Tuesday night]."

UConn coach Jim Calhoun said Gay made the tough plays down the stretch, something he would need to do for them throughout the course of the season. The Panther players were just as complimentary, almost expecting that Gay would play this way. Still, according to the UConn staff, Gay hasn't played this well since scoring 28 points, going 11-of-19 and picking up four steals in a Maui Invitational quarterfinal win over Arkansas -- in late November.

"He was more aggressive," UConn senior guard Rashad Anderson said. "Other than that Arkansas game this was his best."