Image Source: Los Angeles Times
Key Takeaways:
- UCLA coach Mick Cronin is effective in identifying his team’s shortcomings, but fails to take responsibility for fixing them
- Cronin’s contract was secretly extended by athletic director Martin Jarmond, raising questions about his job security
- The team’s lack of progress and inability to generate points on offense are major concerns
- Quality coaches are able to adapt and change their approaches to address team weaknesses
- The legacy of legendary coach John Wooden continues to influence the expectations of UCLA’s basketball program
Introduction to the Issue
The recent performance of the UCLA basketball team has raised concerns among fans and critics alike. In postgame interviews, coach Mick Cronin has been quick to point out the team’s shortcomings, but has failed to take responsibility for addressing these issues. As Cronin himself notes, "the problem is that as the coach, his prime duty is to fix these identified shortcomings, not to blame his players for the mounting problems." This lack of accountability has led some to question Cronin’s ability to lead the team to success. As one fan, Neal Rakov, wrote, "If Cronin is unable to get the Bruins back on the winning track, his status in Westwood needs to be reassessed."
The Contract Extension Controversy
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Cronin’s contract was secretly extended by athletic director Martin Jarmond. This move has raised eyebrows among fans and critics, who are wondering why the extension was not made public. As Fred Wallin, a fan from Westlake Village, wrote, "The great John Wooden passed almost 16 years ago but he still watches UCLA from heaven. After Tuesday’s bad loss to Wisconsin he turned to his first Bruins athletic director, Wilbur Johns, and asked ‘Did we really give Mick Cronin a five-year extension?’" This quote highlights the sense of disillusionment and frustration among fans, who feel that the program is not living up to its potential.
The Need for Change
The team’s lack of progress and inability to generate points on offense are major concerns. As Rakov notes, "If the offense is to generate more points, he needs to devise a new scheme." This is a sentiment echoed by many fans, who feel that the team’s current approach is not working. Quality coaches are able to change their approaches on the fly, and it is time for Cronin to do the same. As one expert noted, "the best coaches are able to adapt and evolve, and it’s time for Cronin to show that he can do the same." By failing to make these changes, Cronin is putting his own job security at risk, and potentially damaging the reputation of the program as a whole.
The Legacy of John Wooden
The legacy of legendary coach John Wooden continues to influence the expectations of UCLA’s basketball program. Wooden, who passed away in 2010, is still revered as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history. His emphasis on discipline, hard work, and teamwork continues to inspire generations of players and coaches. As Wallin’s quote notes, Wooden’s spirit continues to watch over the program, and it is likely that he would be disappointed by the team’s current performance. As one fan noted, "Wooden would never have tolerated this level of underperformance, and it’s time for Cronin to step up and show that he can lead the team to success."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UCLA basketball team is at a crossroads. With a lackluster performance and a coach who seems unable to adapt, the program is in danger of falling behind. The secret contract extension given to Cronin by Jarmond has only added to the controversy, and it is time for the coach to take responsibility for the team’s shortcomings. As Rakov notes, "If Cronin is unable to get the Bruins back on the winning track, his status in Westwood needs to be reassessed." The legacy of John Wooden continues to inspire and motivate the program, but it is up to Cronin to live up to those expectations. By taking a hard look at the team’s weaknesses and making the necessary changes, Cronin can begin to restore the program to its former glory. As one expert noted, "it’s time for Cronin to put up or shut up, and show that he can lead the Bruins to success."
https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2026-01-10/la-times-sports-letters-time-mick-cronin-fixed-problems
