In Reply to: No one wants to play in an empty gym posted by TheHappyBurgermeister on January 27, 2026 at 13:42:08
Not to discount your point—which is a valid one, and I can see how it might influence a recruit—but the data still points to strong interest in UCLA. Being seventh in the country is meaningful. Even in a down year, more people are watching the Bruins than all but six other programs, and it’s safe to assume most of those teams are/were enjoying strong seasons. In addition, if I'm a coach, I have to believe I can make the team successful and pack the stands.
So when the discussion turns to which is the best coaching job in the conference, I have to ask—really? Maryland and Ohio State are considered better jobs? And this isn’t an isolated take. I’ve even heard speculation that Cronin was eyeing the open Louisville job. What, exactly, has Louisville accomplished to justify being viewed as a more desirable destination than UCLA?
The conversation should really center on a few core factors:
Money: All signs suggest UCLA is at least competitive financially. After all, the head coach is among the highest paid in the country.
Recruiting: There’s an abundance of elite talent right in our backyard.
Visibility: Again, seventh nationally in viewership. Add in Los Angeles—the entertainment capital of the world—gyms filled with NBA scouts, and a globally recognized brand.
Bottom line, there’s no shortage of UCLA Bruins who have been drafted into the NBA. Show real ability at UCLA, and you’re on the radar—often gone sooner rather than later.