Mick Cronin Criticizes Performance After UCLA’s Lackluster Season Opener: ‘I Failed’

Basio badr

ago 3 hours

This season opener for the UCLA Bruins was far from what the team and fans expected. Despite a victory, head coach Mick Cronin expressed his disappointment in the team’s performance after an 80-74 win over Eastern Washington at Pauley Pavilion. With high hopes following two strong exhibition games, the Bruins, ranked 12th, struggled against a lower-ranked opponent from the Big Sky Conference.

Mick Cronin Criticizes Performance After UCLA’s Lackluster Season Opener

During the postgame analysis, Cronin lamented the team’s defensive shortcomings. He noted, “I’d like to fire myself for our defense,” highlighting that UCLA allowed 38 points in the paint and yielded a shooting percentage of 53.7% to Eastern Washington.

Defensive Struggles

38 points allowed in the paint.
53.7% shooting by Eastern Washington.
Poor adherence to the scouting report.
Inadequate pick-and-roll defense.
Shoddy post defense practices.

Despite kicking off the game with a strong mentality, the team’s focus waned as the match progressed. Cronin recalled the lack of intensity, stating, “When you have the wrong attitude in life, it shows up.” He took full responsibility for the team’s lack of performance, emphasizing his failure to keep them prepared.

Promising Debuts

Newcomer Donovan Dent, making his first appearance with UCLA after transferring from New Mexico, showcased his skills with 21 points and nine assists. His performance included an impressive no-look pass that set up a dunk.

Forward Tyler Bilodeau also contributed significantly, scoring 19 points—14 of which came during the second half. However, the absence of Eric Dailey Jr. due to a knee injury put additional pressure on the squad.

Looking Ahead

Cronin indicated the need for serious changes if defensive issues persist. He stated, “We’re going to play defense or you don’t play,” signaling a zero-tolerance approach towards players who fail to meet expectations.

As the Bruins prepare for upcoming challenges, Cronin acknowledged that the team’s practices would become increasingly demanding. “It’s my job to make sure we defend,” he said, reinforcing the importance of strategy and effort moving forward.

With aspirations for a deep NCAA tournament run, the Bruins must address these glaring issues soon. The road ahead will require commitment and adaptability as they strive to live up to their potential in the 2023 season.