AIKMAN HAS FOND MEMORIES.

Byline: Jon Wilner Daily News Staff Writer

UCLA's Cotton Bowl preparation continued Sunday with sideline support from one of the most famous Bruins football players of them all.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman watched UCLA practice on his home field, Texas Stadium, while reminiscing about his experience in the 1989 Cotton Bowl.

``The defense played awfully well,'' Aikman said of UCLA's 17-3 victory over Arkansas. ``But I remember the week of events leading up to the game more than the game itself.''

And with good reason. The Cowboys were expected to make Aikman, who played two years at UCLA, the No. 1 pick in the 1989 draft. During his week in Dallas, Aikman conversed with Cowboys officials, dined with former coach Tom Landry and did several live radio interviews.

``It was chaotic and it took away from my ability to prepare for the game a little,'' he said. ``But it was real enjoyable. (Former Dallas director of player personnel) Gil Brandt called me the week of the game and told me not to worry about my performance. He said they had already established what they were going to do with the pick.''

Aikman, who completed 19 of 27 passes in the Cotton Bowl, has endowed a scholarship and watches UCLA whenever possible.

``I really don't know that many people anymore,'' he said. ``I went to the Cotton Bowl a few years ago when Colorado was in it and hung out with Rick Neuheisel.''

Aikman talked to the Bruins before practice and spoke with quarterback Cade McNown one-on-one - a conversation McNown won't soon forget.

``(Aikman) was a great player for UCLA and has gone on to a great pro career,'' Bruins coach Bob Toledo said. ``Every time his name is mentioned on television it's a recruiting advantage for us.''

CAPTION(S):

Photo

PHOTO UCLA quarterback Cade McNown, right, received some encouraging words from former Bruins great Troy Aikman.

Associated Press