ESPN Host Blasts UCLA Coach Mick Cronin for 'Acting Like an Ass'

Stephen A. Smith criticizes Cronin's behavior towards player ejection and reporter question

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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ESPN's Stephen A. Smith harshly criticized UCLA head basketball coach Mick Cronin for his actions during a recent game against Michigan State. Smith said Cronin "acted like an ass" by ejecting one of his own players and berating a reporter who asked a "relatively benign" question after the game.

Why it matters

Cronin's behavior has raised concerns about the potential impact on UCLA's program and recruiting, as Smith questioned whether the coach's actions reflect the type of environment and culture he is cultivating for his players and the university.

The details

During the game against Michigan State, Cronin ejected one of his own players, Steve Jamerson, after a hard foul. After the game, Cronin berated a reporter who asked a question about the Michigan State student section, calling it the "worst question I've ever been asked." Smith criticized Cronin's actions, saying the coach should know better than to treat his players and the media that way publicly.

  • On Tuesday night, Cronin ejected player Steve Jamerson during the game against Michigan State.
  • After the game, Cronin berated a reporter over a question about the Michigan State student section.

The players

Mick Cronin

The head coach of the UCLA men's basketball team, who has led the Bruins to the Final Four and won 68% of his games at UCLA.

Steve Jamerson

A UCLA player who was ejected from the game against Michigan State by Cronin.

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent ESPN host who strongly criticized Cronin's behavior on the network's show First Take.

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What they’re saying

“Yes he was. I think Mick Cronin is a great coach. He took UCLA to the Final Four if I remember correctly in '21. He's won 68% of his games at UCLA. You are a damn good coach, sir. That doesn't give you a license to be an ass unnecessarily.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Host (First Take)

“The reporter's asking you a question. Answer the question. You saying, 'Congratulations, worst question,' you've got attitude. And oh, by the way, you're ejecting a player? It was a hard foul, the player's hustling, he's showing effort. He might have done something wrong. You put him on the bench. To eject him from the game, was that necessary? Why should somebody want to come and play for you if you're going to act like that to your own damn player? You think that's not going to have a potential effect on recruiting?”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Host (First Take)

What’s next

The UCLA athletic department has not yet commented on Cronin's behavior, but it may face questions about whether any disciplinary action will be taken against the coach.

The takeaway

Cronin's actions during the Michigan State game have raised concerns about the culture and environment he is cultivating for his players and the UCLA basketball program, which could have implications for the team's recruiting and public perception.