How UCLA’s New Transfers Could Change Mick Cronin’s Approach

Mick Cronin has a very distinct style in college basketball.

Slower, controlled, disciplined, defense-minded players usually fuel Cronin’s rosters, and while this style of play may work for many teams, there’s an argument to be made that this line of thinking may not be the best thing for UCLA moving forward.

Mar 13, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin talks to his team in a timeout during the first half of the game against the Michigan State Spartans at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

For starters, many of Cronin’s transfer players come from teams with a much higher pace than UCLA last season. If Cronin’s mindset were less set on that style of play, it could allow many of his players to avoid altering the playing style they are used to.

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UCLA’s Transfers Have Experience at Higher Tempo

For instance, Sergej Macura, Filip Jovic, and Azavier Robinson all come to UCLA as transfers, and each of their previous schools played at a pace much faster than UCLA. The Bruins ranked 308th in adjusted tempo nationally last season among all Division I teams, according to KenPom.

Auburn Tigers forward Filip Jovi (38) and Nevada Wolfpack guard Myles Walker (2) fight for a loose ball as Auburn Tigers take on Nevada Wolfpack during the third round of the National Invitation Tournament at Neville Arena in Auburn, Ala. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Auburn Tigers lead Nevada Wolfpack 38-26 at halftime. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Comparatively, Auburn (Jovic) ranked 179th, Mississippi State (Macura) ranked 64th, and Butler (Azavier Robinson) ranked 107th.

If Cronin adopted a faster-paced offense, it could help bridge the gap between what these transfers have experienced at their previous schools.

Mar 7, 2026; Provo, Utah, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders guard Jaylen Petty (11) dribbles the ball during the second half against the BYU Cougars at Marriott Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Baker-Imagn Images | IMAGN…

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Publish date : 2026-09-04 12:30:00

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