UCLA’s Mick Cronin Aims for Milestone Win 500 Against Minnesota

Los Angeles, California — Mick Cronin is on the verge of a significant career milestone as he prepares to lead the UCLA Bruins against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Tuesday. With a record of 499-231, Cronin could become the youngest active Division I coach to achieve 500 victories, marking a momentous occasion in his 22 seasons of coaching.

Understanding the significance of the game, Cronin expressed surprise when his 83-year-old father, Hep, announced he would be attending the match in Los Angeles. “He goes, ‘Well, you’re a real genius, you know if you win what it is?’” remarked Cronin. His father’s playful tease revealed the pressure surrounding this milestone, which has energized the team ahead of the Big Ten clash.

The Bruins, currently ranked 19-7 overall and holding a 10-5 record in the Big Ten, view this as an opportunity to support their coach and further solidify their recent success, having won eight of their last nine games. “Oh yeah, we gonna get 500 for him, for sure,” forward Tyler Bilodeau stated. “It’s definitely a great milestone in his career, and just lucky that we’ll be the team to do it for him.”

Cronin’s coaching journey began at Murray State, where he achieved his first win back in 2003. The path since then has included nine NCAA tournament appearances as head coach of Cincinnati before arriving at UCLA, where he has posted a 134-60 record over six seasons.

Reflecting on his career, Cronin said, “When you’re young, you’re just thinking, can I get a job and make enough money before I get fired?” He acknowledged not having anticipated reaching this monumental win total, but he has consistently focused on team achievements rather than personal accolades.

In preparation for their upcoming match, the Bruins have maintained a strong defense, ranking 23rd nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 64.8 points per game. They are also sixth in turnover margin, a testament to their disciplined play.

Meanwhile, Minnesota (13-12, 5-9 Big Ten) is looking to build on recent momentum, having secured wins in five of their last eight outings after a slow start in the conference. Coach Ben Johnson praised his star player, Dawson Garcia, who leads the Golden Gophers in scoring and rebounding, highlighting the team’s potential for an upset.

“I hope their win at SC gets our guys’ attention,” Cronin noted, acknowledging Minnesota’s competitive spirit. The Bruins and Golden Gophers have a historical rivalry, with UCLA leading the all-time series 5-2, although Minnesota claimed victory in their last encounter during the 2013 NCAA Tournament.

As the excitement builds ahead of the game, Cronin remains humble about the upcoming milestone, understanding the challenges and pressures that come with coaching at such a high level. With his father in attendance, Cronin hopes to celebrate win No. 500 in front of a supportive home crowd.