UCLA Basketball Coach Mick Cronin Criticizes Team’s ‘Soft’ Performance

UCLA men’s basketball coach Mick Cronin unleashed a fiery critique of his team following a disappointing loss to Michigan on Tuesday night, calling the Bruins “soft” and questioning their toughness. The Bruins, who entered the game as slight favorites, fell to 11-4 overall and 2-2 in Big Ten play after squandering a second-half lead.

“Obviously, they shot the ball well,” Cronin said of Michigan, which made 71% of its shots inside the arc and 54% from three-point range. “But we’re soft. We’re too soft to play hard enough. Even in the [crucial moments], you can’t get a rebound. … So don’t tell me you want to win. Just don’t tell me you want to win. I mean, we’re soft.”

The loss marked UCLA’s third defeat in its last four games, raising concerns about the team’s trajectory. Cronin, known for his passionate demeanor, did not hold back in his postgame comments, directing criticism at both his players and coaching staff. “I have to run on the court to get guys to play hard,” he said. “It’s crazy. And it’s every day. I’m tired of it.”

Cronin, who has nearly 500 career wins, emphasized the need for accountability and leadership within the team. He referenced “The Wizard of Oz,” suggesting some players need to “go see the Wizard” to address their delusions about their abilities. “The hungry dog gets the bone,” he said. “We’ve got guys that think they’re way better than they are. They’re nice kids. They’re completely delusional about who they are.”

The Bruins now face a challenging two-game road trip, traveling to Maryland and then Michigan State. Cronin acknowledged the difficulties of the Big Ten’s travel demands but stressed that his team must improve quickly. “I don’t need to do anything else,” he said. “I’ve almost got 500 wins. I’m only 53. You’d think I’m coaching the Lakers. And it’s a joke.”

UCLA’s struggles come amid heightened expectations for the program, which joined the Big Ten this season. Cronin, who led the Bruins to the Final Four in 2021, has consistently demanded toughness and effort from his teams. However, the recent performances have left him searching for answers. “I’m upset with everybody in that locker room: my assistant coaches and my players,” he said.

As UCLA prepares for its upcoming games, Cronin’s blunt assessment underscores the urgency for improvement. The Bruins will need to rediscover their defensive identity and mental toughness to compete in a highly competitive conference.