Mick Cronin says ‘blame me’ after UCLA’s loss to Ohio State

UCLA Basketball Coach Mick Cronin Takes Responsibility After Defeat to Ohio State

Mick Cronin, the head coach of UCLA’s men’s basketball team, faced a wave of questions post his team’s disappointing 86-74 loss to Ohio State. With the Bruins struggling both defensively and on the boards, Cronin didn’t shy away from the issues at hand. “Blame me – blame me,” he stated, accepting accountability for the team’s failures. His candid admission comes amidst what many are calling one of the biggest disappointments of the college basketball season, particularly given UCLA’s high pre-season ranking of 12th in the nation.

Season Struggles: Defensive and Rebounding Woes

Historically, UCLA has been recognized for its tenacious defense and rebounding prowess. However, recent games, including a significant loss against the Buckeyes, revealed a stark decline in these areas. The Bruins allowed Ohio State to dominate the boards, losing the rebounding battle 37-27, which included a staggering 12 offensive rebounds leading to 17 second-chance points. “We had nobody who could guard Thornton or Mobley,” Cronin lamented, elucidating the lack of defensive effort that led to the team’s downfall. While the Bruins have been noted for their offensive strengths, a consistent failure to defend and rebound has compromised their competitive edge.

Challenges with Key Players

UCLA’s roster, once bolstered by the addition of top transfer point guard Donovan Dent, is facing hurdles. Dent has struggled to make a significant impact, producing only average performances despite high expectations. Moreover, the absence of guard Skyy Clark, sidelined due to a hamstring injury, has left a gap in the team’s dynamic. Even in games where other players showcased talent, such as Tyler Bilodeau and Trent Perry, their contributions have often been insufficient. “I didn’t really offensively show up for my team,” Perry acknowledged, reflecting on the collective mediocrity that contributed to the defeat.

Coaching Decisions in Question

Cronin’s choices about player rotations are under scrutiny as well. The performance of Xavier Booker, the team’s center, hasn’t met expectations, leading to reduced playing time. His limited contributions have forced Cronin to rethink his strategy, considering earlier starts were in hopes of igniting a spark within the team. Though Cronin indicated a desire to put forth the best lineup, it’s clear the players’ performances must align with this strategy for it to succeed.

Looking Ahead: A Tough Road to Recovery

As UCLA prepares to face formidable competition, including a showdown against No. 5 Purdue, there’s a growing sense of urgency for the team to rectify their weaknesses. “We have to come together as a group,” Perry emphasized, pinpointing communication and energy as crucial factors for improvement. The Bruins’ challenges have highlighted a need for cohesion and grit, especially against high-caliber opponents. Their upcoming matchup serves as a litmus test for the team’s desire to turn their season around.

Final Thoughts on Team Dynamics

While individual performances have been subpar, Cronin’s insights underscore a larger issue within the team: a lack of tough-minded players willing to contribute to the "dirty work." As he prepares for the grueling contest against celebrated teams, the fundamental challenge lies in fostering a unite aggressive mentality among the players. Failure to address these issues could lead to further disappointment as the season progresses.

In summary, UCLA’s path forward demands self-reflection, accountability, and collective effort. The Bruins must harness their potential, integrating strong defense and rebounding if they hope to compete with top-tier programs. Coach Mick Cronin’s willingness to own the shortcomings reveals leadership at a critical juncture. As the team readies itself for the challenges ahead, focus on improvement and team cohesion remains paramount.