Why UCLA Basketball’s Rotation Could Be Deeper Than Expected

We’ve discussed what the starting lineup would likely look like for the Bruins next season, but not necessarily how the rotation could work.

UCLA has some pretty interesting rotational pieces at its disposal, but it will ultimately be up to Mick Cronin to decide who cracks the regular rotation and which players may not see a ton of playing time this season.

Mar 22, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin reacts in the second half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Starting in the backcourt, we know that Trent Perry and Jaylen Petty will highlight that portion of the floor. Perry will take on a much larger role this season, as he becomes the primary point guard and ball handler.

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Behind them, I would expect to see Eric Freeny coming into the game as a relief option. There’s also Butler transfer Azavier Robinson, but it seems like Cronin may elect to take a year to develop him instead of playing him right away.

Jan 20, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Butler Bulldogs guard Azavier Robinson (23) is fouled by DePaul Blue Demons guard Layden Blocker (2) during the second half at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Cronin has noted in the past that he wants Robinson to become a true point guard, so getting some minutes behind Perry seems to be the course of action.

In the frontcourt, things may get a little foggy. Serbian Star Nikola Kusturica will likely fill in as the small forward, with Eric Dailey Jr. playing power forward and Xavier Booker as the starting center. Behind those three, it seems like there are still minutes to be officially distributed.

Mar 22, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins center Xavier Booker (1) reacts against the UConn Huskies in the first half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory…

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Publish date : 2026-09-02 10:32:00

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