"Breaking news UCLA MBB fire their head coach": College hoops fans bash Mick Cronin for calling out Bruins

UCLA coach Mick Cronin had some harsh words for his players after the No. 22 Bruins lost 94-75 to No. 24 Michigan on Tuesday. He began by highlighting the key problems from the Wolverines game, citing the team's level of effort, ability to garner offensive rebounds and lack of defense. The coach also gave insights on team practices, saying that he has higher energy levels than his players.

Even though he acknowledged the talent level of his squad, Cronin leveled his team as "delusional" and "soft." He expressed that the players constantly overestimate their abilities and lack the hunger and determination to keep rowing in the conference play.

"We're too soft to play hard enough," Cronin said to open the postgame news conference.

"It's really hard to coach people that are delusional. ... We got guys that think they're way better than they are. They're nice kids, they're completely delusional about who they are," he added (Timestamp: 3:00).

As Bleacher Report posted the soundbite on its Instagram handle, college hoops fans stormed the comments section with their reactions.

"I haven’t seen a coach call out players in a while," a fan wrote.

"😂😂 I love this though he might be cooked for this," another fan commented.

"Breaking news UCLA MBB fire their head coach," another wrote.

More fans followed suit with contrasting sentiments on Mick Cronin's comments.

"You ain’t a players coach. Gotta remember, your job is to help elevate boys and turn them into men. It’s more than just hoops. Some coaches don’t get it… 🎯💯," a fan commented.

"Reality check them now before they get reality checked when it matters," another wrote.

"Preach coach, this new generation is COOKED," another commented.

Fans react to Mick Cronin's comments on his players.

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Mick Cronin believes 3-point shooting was the biggest factor against Michigan

Mick Cronin, the 2023 Pac-12 Coach of the Year, highlighted UCLA's ongoing persistent defensive struggles, noting that they have allowed more than 40 second-half points in its last three contests. He claimed that it acts as a double-edged sword when compounded by the Bruins' poor shooting touch.

"Our last three halves at defense: 42, 47, 47 points," Cronin said (Timestamp: 5:38). "So, that ain't going to cut it, 'cause the truth is we can't score enough, especially the way we're shooting the ball from the 3, 2-for 20, and from the foul line – miss 11 free throws."

Michigan (12-3, 4-0 Big Ten) outscored UCLA (11-4, 2-2) in most major statistical categories and shot the ball exceptionally well (61.5%).

While the Bruins gained some momentum by forcing 16 turnovers and logging 34 attempts from the charity stripe, they mitigated the impact making just two of their 20 3-point attempts. On the other hand, the Wolverines made 15 of their 28 shots from the arc.