The dialogue is already happening.
What’s on your playlist? Who’s around? Who’s ready to join in?
UCLA Bruins basketball coach Mick Cronin is grappling with such inquiries as he navigates a roster overhaul.
If things align, Bruins assistant general manager Max Feldman could provide the team with the elements they really need after a lackluster few seasons.
We’re talking about elite athleticism, a solid defensive strategy, and resilience.
Due to missing these crucial aspects, they skipped the NCAA Tournament last season and entered the past two as a No. 7 seed. Unfortunately, this ended in early exits against higher-ranked teams.
Given the time it takes for players to grasp the defensive schemes Cronin demands, it seems wise to focus on recruits with multiple seasons of eligibility when the transfer portal opens on April 7.
At a minimum, UCLA needs to find a starting center who can rebound and fortify the defense, in addition to seeking another point guard and a few wing players. The new point guard might either complement Trent Perry or step in for Skye Clark if his eligibility extension request falls through.
Clark has expressed eagerness to return next season.
“Absolutely, for sure,” Clark remarked after the Bruins faced a tough loss against UW. “Let’s see what unfolds.”
Perry’s return isn’t guaranteed, perhaps due to his escalating demands and the myriad of options available. He preferred to celebrate his seniors’ last game instead of speculating about his future.
Cronin also seemed hesitant when asked about adapting his strategy following three straight seasons ending before the NCAA Tournament’s second weekend.
It’s no secret that he’s struggled with building a cohesive roster in light of NIL changes, resulting in a mismatch that underutilized his coaching strengths. Feldman is expected to be instrumental in rectifying this, as Cronin aims to expand his front office.
His only announcement to reporters was a desire to allocate an extra $5 million to the players.
But the pressing question is, who does he want to keep? Perry, who Cronin has been keen to retain publicly, has some tough choices ahead.
Forward Eric Daley Jr. has proven valuable when on point, yet may be considered too inconsistent for a starter’s wage for another year. He has not committed to his future as of yet.
A player like Xavier Booker could be worth keeping as a backup big, particularly if he accepts a second-string salary. Eric Freeney and Brandon Williams are also potential players Cronin hopes to retain, provided they are agreeable to similar backup terms.
Joining the roster are freshmen Joe Philon and Javonte Floyd, both of whom embody Cronin’s defensive mindset and toughness. Still, their immediate impact may be limited as first-year college players.
It’s worth mentioning that Cronin’s last two classes at Southern California included top local high school talent, and that’s a trend he needs to continue for sustainable success—just as former UCLA coach Ben Howland experienced challenges in recruiting towards the end of his tenure, which ultimately led to his dismissal.
Unless he decides to step away prematurely, Cronin has agreed to a new contract that runs through the 2029-30 season. However, this program might be losing patience with the status quo.
UCLA fans don’t expect a national championship year after year, but they do want their team to remain competitive nationally and contend for conference titles. Unfortunately, the Bruins have missed this mark for three years.
Thus, a coach known for his determined nature is equally determined to refresh the roster.
“I’ll be here non-stop until May 1,” Cronin stated last week.
