UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin is making headlines for all the wrong reasons, and it's putting a spotlight on the program in a way they'd rather avoid.
During a tough 82-59 road loss to Michigan State, Cronin made a controversial decision by ejecting center Steven Jamerson II after a flagrant foul on Spartans' Carson Cooper. With the Bruins trailing 77-50 and just over four minutes left, Cronin sent Jamerson to the locker room, sparking debate.
Cronin commented on the incident, saying, "True toughness is how you compete and work every day. Steve's a good kid who made a bad decision. But if you want to be a tough guy, do it during the game, for a blockout, for a rebound."
While Jamerson's foul was ill-advised, Cronin's reaction has raised eyebrows. This isn't the first time his treatment of players has been questioned.
An investigative report by Gregg Doyel of the Indianapolis Star sheds light on Cronin's behavior, featuring quotes from anonymous scouts who are shocked by his approach. One Eastern Conference scout remarked, "[Former UCLA HC] John Wooden would be beside himself at the way Cronin treats his players."
The scouts describe Cronin as combative, despite acknowledging his coaching prowess. "He's an excellent coach and a great guy off the court," one said. However, his use of profanity and lack of recorded practices suggest a more intense environment than some might expect.
The tension between Cronin and his players seems to be affecting the team's performance. With a record of 17-9 and 9-6 in the Big Ten, the Bruins have dropped three of their last five games, putting their NCAA Tournament hopes in jeopardy. ESPN's Joe Lunardi currently has them just squeezing into the tournament.
Seth Greenberg of ESPN commented that Cronin's behavior might be a "by-product" of the team's struggles. As Cronin enters his seventh season, the pressure is mounting. His recent five-year extension with UCLA could be scrutinized if the Bruins miss March Madness again.
Ultimately, while the pressure is undeniable, it's crucial for Cronin to manage his temper and foster a positive environment for his players. Doing so might just be the key to turning the season around.