UCLA Coach Apologizes for Ejecting Player

UCLA basketball coach Mick Cronin recently expressed regret for ejecting backup center Stephen Jamerson II during a game earlier this week. It was a situation, perhaps, that escalated quicker than anticipated.

Initially, Cronin felt that Jamerson’s actions during Tuesday’s matchup against Michigan State were overly aggressive. However, after reviewing the footage, he recognized that his first impression was not entirely accurate.

Following the incident, Cronin mentioned that Jamerson accepted the apology and even lightheartedly commented that the players joked about demanding an extra $10,000 for name, image, and likeness rights.

“Steve embodies everything good about college basketball,” Cronin remarked, a statement that perhaps reflects how much he values the character of his players.

Interestingly, there was some backlash regarding Cronin’s decision to remove Jamerson, with criticism coming from various talk shows and columns that labeled him as a bully, suggesting he failed to live up to the esteemed character standards set by the legendary coach John Wooden.

The controversy kicked off during the game when Jamerson fouled Michigan State’s Carson Cooper with only about four and a half minutes left. It was a hard foul, which sent Cooper tumbling to the floor amid audible groans from the crowd. The players had a moment of tension before parting ways, but it’s what occurred next that raised eyebrows.

Before officials could review the play, Jamerson headed toward the UCLA bench, and that’s when Cronin intervened, signaling for him to leave the game. Jamerson’s surprised expression as he walked off the court drew attention, especially as fans waved farewell.

Post-game, officials deemed the foul flagrant. In reflecting on the incident, Cronin described Jamerson as “a good kid who made a bad decision.” He elaborated, saying that if players want to show toughness, it should be through proper gameplay—like blocking and rebounding—especially in a game where they were trailing significantly.

It’s worth noting that being ejected might have been particularly humiliating for Jamerson, considering he’d once tried to establish himself at Michigan State. After not making it as a player or a student manager, he transferred to the University of San Diego and then came to the Bruins this season, perhaps seeking redemption.