Letters: Apology or not, UCLA coach Mick Cronin must go
How does Mick Cronin survive this, sending his own player off the field after working hard on defense to get a piece of the ball, but unfortunately making too much contact and causing a foul. Doesn’t he constantly tear his team apart for weak defense?
Steven Jamerson, you deserved better from your coach and I won’t be surprised if your teammates and the decision makers at UCLA agree moving forward. Except …. he just got an extension. Well done, Martin Jarmond.
Ron Mortvedt
Saint Bernardino
How can UCLA’s combustible coach demand discipline, hold his players accountable or blame them for not taking responsibility when, night after night, he is the most unhinged person in the building? Hey Mick, like my grandmother used to say, “When you point your finger at someone, you point back three times.”
Steve Ross
Carmel
Bill Plaschke explained it well in his column today. Mick Cronin seems angry all the time and lurks on the sidelines. What does that look like for a kid still playing in high school? How AD Martin Jarmond gave him an extended contract with a $22.5 million buyout is beyond me. It’s going to cost UCLA dearly to abandon him. It would be a lot easier if he just started throwing chairs.
Paul Atkinson
Ventura
The sky has fallen! For the first time I can remember, I agree with something Bill Plaschke wrote!
Julien Pollok
Palm Desert
As a longtime fan and proud alumnus, I believe it is time for UCLA to seriously evaluate the direction of its men’s basketball program. Why would we want a head coach who seems angry every time he’s in the spotlight? Leadership sets the tone, and right now that tone seems tense and joyless. Players want to compete for someone who inspires them and makes them better – not someone whose public attitude seems rooted in frustration.
From the outside, it often looks like the team is playing tight rather than confident, and that reflects their leadership. Mick Cronin has had success and deserves credit for it, but UCLA basketball is more important than any resume; If the standard is sustained excellence and a culture that actors are proud to represent, then it is fair to ask whether this is the right long-term solution for the program.
Michael Gesas
Beverly Hills
