UCLA Coach Mick Cronin Ejects Own Player, Berates Reporter After Loss

Cronin's bizarre behavior during and after the UCLA-Michigan State game left many scratching their heads.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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During a blowout loss to Michigan State, UCLA head coach Mick Cronin bizarrely ejected his own player, Steven Jamerson III, after Jamerson was called for a flagrant foul. Cronin's actions left Michigan State coach Tom Izzo and others confused. After the game, Cronin then berated a reporter who asked about the Michigan State student section chanting the name of a former Spartan now playing for UCLA, making for an incredibly strange interaction.

Why it matters

Cronin's behavior during and after the game has raised questions about his coaching style and ability to keep his emotions in check, especially when his team is struggling. His actions towards his own player and the reporter have drawn widespread criticism and scrutiny.

The details

With UCLA trailing Michigan State by a large margin, Jamerson committed a hard foul to prevent an easy basket. The officials called a flagrant foul, but Cronin bizarrely chose to eject Jamerson from the game, even though the refs did not rule for an ejection. After the game, Cronin lashed out at a reporter who asked about the Michigan State student section chanting the name of a former Spartan now playing for UCLA, calling it the "worst question" he had ever been asked.

  • The incident occurred during an in-conference game between UCLA and Michigan State on Tuesday evening.

The players

Mick Cronin

The head coach of the UCLA Bruins men's basketball team, known for his intense sideline demeanor.

Steven Jamerson III

A UCLA player who was ejected from the game by Cronin despite not being ejected by the officials.

Tom Izzo

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team, who expressed confusion over Cronin's decision to eject his own player.

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What they’re saying

“It was the first time I've ever seen a coach do that.”

— Tom Izzo, Michigan State Head Coach

“That was the worst question I was ever asked. Do you really think I care about the opposing student section?”

— Mick Cronin, UCLA Head Coach

What’s next

The UCLA athletic department is expected to review Cronin's actions and determine if any disciplinary measures are warranted.

The takeaway

Cronin's bizarre behavior towards his own player and the reporter raises serious questions about his ability to keep his emotions in check and maintain composure, especially when his team is struggling. His actions have drawn widespread criticism and could lead to further scrutiny of his coaching style and leadership.