Upsets can occur at any time in college basketball, as demonstrated by UCLA’s recent win under head coach Mick Cronin. The Bruins edged out Michigan State, led by Tom Izzo, with a close score of 63-61 on their home floor this past Tuesday. Following the game, Izzo briefly addressed the media, acknowledging that Cronin’s coaching methods are proving effective.
“You better hope he keeps yelling,” Izzo commented via Ben Bolch on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Cronin and the UCLA basketball program have been in the spotlight for a variety of reasons. He is known for his forthright approach and has not hesitated to voice his opinions about his players. Notably, he referred to his team as delusional after a defeat to Michigan.
While some believe his tough love might be excessive, their performance in conference play indicates that his approach is working. The Bruins currently hold a record of 17-6, with an 8-4 mark in conference play. Their inaugural season in the Big Ten is shaping up positively, especially after some earlier challenges. Receiving acknowledgment from a seasoned coach like Izzo speaks volumes about the progress being made, though it may not come as a surprise to those observing the team.
Mick Cronin and UCLA basketball continue to find success
Winning can rectify many issues, particularly negative narratives. Despite some critical commentary about his squad, Cronin is quick to offer praise. After the victory, he emphasized to his players the importance of minimizing errors, as evidenced by their mere three turnovers during the game despite shooting approximately 35% from the field.
At its core, avoiding mistakes can lead to victory in a majority of matchups. However, it’s crucial to recognize that a team’s endgame is more telling than its start. Triumphant over the 9th-ranked team in the nation is certainly commendable. As of this moment, the Bruins sit fourth in the Big Ten with an 8-4 conference record.
While Purdue and Michigan State dominate the conference landscape, UCLA’s recent triumph validates their competitiveness. After a less than stellar year in the Pac-12 and transitioning to a new conference, Cronin has his players moving in the right direction. The team’s defense has been exceptional, ranking among the 20 best in the country for points allowed per game.
With the Big Ten tournament approaching next month, the Bruins seem to be gaining momentum at a pivotal moment. Cronin’s combined strategy of coaching and tough love might be exactly what the program needs. He led the team to the Final Four in 2021, ensuring he is well aware of the expectations that accompany the program.
Moreover, Izzo’s remarks indicate that UCLA basketball is on an upward path. There is a possibility that the two teams may face off in the upcoming conference tournament, and whether UCLA can replicate this strong performance remains to be seen.
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