Mick Cronin is convinced he has found a hidden gem that would put his Big Ten rivals in complex positions. The UCLA coach will embark in his sixth season with the Bruins after a second-round loss in the 2025 NCAA tournament.&nbsp;



Coming off a 23-11 (13-7 in conference) record, the Bruins are eager to make a deeper run in the national tournament and challenge other top programs such as Duke, UConn, and the defending champions, Florida.&nbsp;



Cronin’s Bruins welcomed guard Donovan Dent from New Mexico in the offseason, which has the 54-year-old over the moon ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.



<h2>Mick Cronin sends strong warning about new player</h2>



During an appearance on CBS’ Inside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College Basketball</a> Now with Jon Rothstein, Mick Cronin talked about what he expects to see from Dent, a player he believes can elevate his offense.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250826_BUS_479594_Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576_d83eae49.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies." class="wp-image-295584" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin </figcaption></figure>



“Donovan Dent is without question the most dynamic I’ve coached,” Cronin said. “Tiger [Campbell] was the ultimate winner, and I’ve had some really good point guards over the years, but Donnie can take it to another level. In practice, there are times he plays at a speed no one else can match. He’s also an underrated shooter.”



He praised the coaches who worked with Dent before, lauding his growth prior to joining the Bruins.



“He’s a problem for opponents,” Cronin warned. “When you play UCLA, the first challenge is figuring out how to stop Donovan from breaking your defense down every possession. Having a guard like him is like having a great quarterback in football, he can create plays on his own, and you don’t have to draw up every basket.”&nbsp;



Cronin took the Bruins to the NCAA tournament’s Final Four in 2021 for the first and only time. Perhaps Dent is the key to emulating that performance and getting over the hump.

Mick Cronin puts Big 10 on notice with major statement about one of his stars

Mick Cronin puts Big 10 on notice with major statement about one of his stars - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Former Tennessee Volunteers quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nico-iamaleava">Nico Iamaleava</a> and his transfer to the UCLA Bruins continues its domino effect over the roster in Los Angeles as another quarterback in the program has now announced his transfer to another school in the state of California.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" rel="sponsored nofollow">NCAA</a> transfer portal continues to deliver great twists and turns to an otherwise quiet stretch of the year during college football’s offseason. This time around, the UCLA Bruins are in centerstage, once again, as a quarterback in DeShaun Foster’s team has now changed address, staying in the Golden State, nevertheless.



Iamaleava has yet to touch down in Los Angeles, as the transfer process requires him to complete his academic obligations at his previous institution, and he is expected at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> during the summer. 



Despite being 2,199 miles away in Knoxville, Iamaleava continues to impact the daily life on campus at UCLA. Quarterbacks in the program have now departed, making way for Nico and his brother Madden Iamaleava. On that note, freshman Robert McDaniel is transferring to San Jose State ahead of his first year in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>, as reported by On3.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250508_BUS_393966_Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-1024x576_e2e51541.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers warms up before a game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Neyland Stadium on September 30, 2023 in Knoxville, Tennessee." class="wp-image-383303" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23115020/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-warms-up-before-a-game-against-the-South-Carolina-Game.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers warms up before a game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Neyland Stadium on September 30, 2023 in Knoxville, Tennessee.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Short-lived stay in LA</h2>



McDaniel committed to UCLA as a three-star recruit in the 2025 recruiting class, but has now signed with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-jose-state">San Jose State Spartans</a>, as the QB room LA is preparing to welcome in Nicholas and Madden Iamaleava ahead of the 2025 NCAA season.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/the-most-unbreakable-records-in-college-football-history"></div>


McDaniel, who was born and raised in California, joins Joey Aguilar in the list of UCLA quarterbacks that have made use of the transfer portal after Iamaleava’s transfer as their playing time would have dimished greatly—if not entirely— with the former Vols’ star’s arrival.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="681d1b5fd90c74f53c9fd47f" data-title="Which school will finish with a better record?" data-options="2"></div>


Aguilar completed what was virtually a trade in college football. The former Bruins’ signal-caller signed with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Volunteers</a>, replacing Iamaleava under center for Josh Heupel’s Tennessee during the 2025 campaign.

UCLA quarterback Robert McDaniel Transfers to San Jose State

NCAAF News: UCLA QB who transferred after Nico Iamaleava’s arrival finds new home in college football

NCAAF News: UCLA QB who transferred after Nico Iamaleava's arrival finds new home in college football - Bolavip US

UCLA QB who transferred after Nico Iamaleava's arrival finds new home in college football

In the blink of an eye, Nico Iamaleava went from being the name of the present and future for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee Volunteers</a> to becoming a sore subject in Knoxville, as the 20-year-old quarterback transferred to the UCLA Bruins. While many argue the reason for his departure was entirely money-wise, UCLA head coach DeShaun Foster voiced a bold admission, stating otherwise.



Iamaleava had become a star in Knoxville, guiding the Volunteers to a College Football Playoff appearance, in which they were knocked out by the Ohio State Buckeyes in the First Round. However, the program’s floor had been established, and it felt like the Vols could only go upwards.



But, drama ensued. Contract negotiations reached a stalemate as Iamaleava was reportedly seeking a pay increase on his NIL deal, which was valued at approximately $2.3 millions. Eventually, Iamaleava pulled the plug, entering the transfer portal, and setting off for new horizons, especifically in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">University of California, Los Angeles</a>.



As Iamaleava joins the Bruins ahead of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" rel="sponsored nofollow">NCAA</a> season, much buzz will follow the transfer junior-year quarterback. However, his new coach, Foster, dropped a powerful admission on the true motives behind Iamaleava’s transfer, dismissing the economic side of the deal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250428_BUS_386915_Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-1024x576_7e767b71.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-386967" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28121528/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-watches-from-the-sidelines-during-the-first-half-agains.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach DeShaun Foster of the UCLA Bruins watches from the sidelines during the first half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Rose Bowl on September 14, 2024 in Pasadena, California.</figcaption></figure>



“[Nico Iamaleava] wanted to come home and be closer to his family,” DeShaun Foster admitted, per On3. “So, I think the family played a big role in being able to come back to California. I think that played a big role, too.”


 

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/ncaaf-news-ucla-hc-deshaun-foster-drops-eye-raising-admission-on-financial-side-of-nico-iamaleavas-transfer"></div>


<h2>Homestate kid</h2>



Iamaleava, a born and raised South Californian, attended both Warren High School in Downey, California and Long Beach Polytechnic High School before enrolling at Tennessee in the 2023 recruiting class. 



He had blossomed into one of the top starting quarterbacks in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>, thriving in the highly competitive SEC. However, it seems homesickness got the best of him, ultimately leading to his decision to return to the Golden State. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="680fa9e26322de585807afc7" data-title="What was the biggest reason for Iamaleava&apos;s transfer to UCLA?" data-options="3"></div>


Iamaleava could play his final college season before declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft — or perhaps he’ll stay for his senior year, maximizing his time in California while he still has a say in where he plays football.

UCLA's DeShaun Foster Reveals Family Ties Played Key Role in Nico Iamaleava's Transfer

NCAAF News: UCLA HC DeShaun Foster breaks silence with bold admission on reason behind Nico Iamaleava’s transfer

The 30 highest-paid college football head coaches: Who&#039;s earning the most?

NCAAF News: UCLA HC DeShaun Foster breaks silence with bold admission on reason behind Nico Iamaleava's transfer - Bolavip US

UCLA HC Foster breaks silence with bold admission on Iamaleava's transfer

The UCLA Bruins are welcoming the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee Volunteers</a> quarterback Nico Iamaleava into their program ahead of the 2025 NCAA season. Following the dramatic plot twist that concluded with Iamaleava’s transfer, UCLA head coach DeShaun Foster made a bold confession about the financial side of the young quarterback’s decision.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College football</a> has undergone a dramatic transformation with the rise of NIL and endorsement deals, turning the transfer portal into a major force that increasingly blurs the line between collegiate and professional athletics.



After last season’s success with the Volunteers, it appeared Iamaleava was just writing his first chapters in the UT’s history books. However, contract negotiations stalled, and what was brewing in Knoxville reached a sudden, irrecoverable halt.



As the drama surrounding Iamaleava hasn’t cooled off yet, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> coach, Foster, issued a strong statement that raised many eyebrows as he made something clear about the impact of the monetary side in the QB’s new deal with the Bruins.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250423_BUS_383298_Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-1024x576_568a3e33.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-383376" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/23130416/Head-coach-DeShaun-Foster-of-the-UCLA-Bruins-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-of-an-NCAA-football-g.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach DeShaun Foster of the UCLA Bruins looks on during the first quarter of an NCAA football game against the LSU TIgers at Tiger Stadium on September 21, 2024 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.</figcaption></figure>



“I don’t think the money played a role in somebody staying or going,” DeShaun Foster stated about Iamaleava’s transfer, per On3.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/ncaaf-rumors-tennessee-plans-fitting-cold-blooded-response-after-losing-nico-iamaleava-to-ucla"></div>

 


<h2>New QB room</h2>



The Bruins are coming off a disappointing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> campaign, after failing to clinch a bowl game appearance. With Iamaleava’s addition to their roster, UCLA has now found their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. 



In response to Iamalaeva’s arrival, Joey Aguilar who had just transferred from Appalachian State to UCLA, entered the transfer portal, where he’s headed for Tennessee. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68091efb6322de585807ae48" data-title="Do you agree with Foster&apos;s admission about Iamaleava?" data-options="2"></div>


Essentially, UCLA and Tennessee completed a QB-for-QB trade in college football. Moreover, the Bruins are <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/ncaaf-rumors-ucla-expected-to-please-nico-iamaleava-with-a-very-special-signing-amid-transfer-portal-frenzy">looking to bring in Nico’s brother, Madden Iamaleava</a>, who will join the quarterback room as well.

UCLA Coach DeShaun Foster Says Financial Factors Did Not Influence Nico Iamaleava’s Transfer Decision

NCAAF News: UCLA HC DeShaun Foster drops eye-raising admission on financial side of Nico Iamaleava’s transfer

NCAAF News: Nico Iamaleava sends heartfelt message to Volunteers after committing to UCLA

NCAAF News: UCLA HC DeShaun Foster drops eye-raising admission on financial side of Nico Iamaleava's transfer - Bolavip US

In college football’s gift that keeps on giving, Nico Iamaleava’s transfer to UCLA keeps adding more layers to the story. According to reports, the Bruins are now looking to bring in a very special teammate for the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee Volunteers</a>‘ signal-caller ahead of the 2025 NCAA season.



Iamaleava’s sudden departure from the school in Knoxville made waves all over the nation, as it wrote a new chapter in today’s NIL-driven <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> landscape. 



Following a remarkable 2024 campaign—one that saw Iamaleava lead the Vols to a postseason berth before falling to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first round—the 20-year-old, hailed as the next great name in UT’s record books, reportedly demanded a $4 million contract. When negotiations stalled, he entered the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> transfer portal.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> wasted no time earning Iamaleava’s commitment, in doing so the Bruins have secured a high-end quarterback to lead them in the upcoming season. Not satisfied, the school in Los Angeles is reportedly now targeting someone Nico Iamaleava knows like the palm of his hand.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250422_BUS_382603_Nico-Iamaleava-9-1024x576_1ebbe6ad.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Nico Iamaleava" class="wp-image-381559" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21124621/Nico-Iamaleava-9.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers warms up prior to the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Neyland Stadium on November 02, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Are two too many?</h2>



According to reports from ESPN’s Chris Low, Madden Iamaleava, Nico’s youngest sibling, is transferring from Arkansas to UCLA, joining his brother in the Bruins’ QB room.


 

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UCLA will now have two Iamaleavas on their roster, as they gear up for a challenging year in the Big Ten. Unfortunately for the buzz and drama, the Bruins won’t face the Vols or Razorbacks in the upcoming season, barring a postseason meeting.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6807c30f6322de585807add4" data-title="Can Madden Iamaleava take the starting job from his brother Nico in UCLA?" data-options="3"></div>


<h2>Meant to be</h2>



Madden had been committed to UCLA for months before flipping to Arkansas in December 2024. But following his brother’s dramatic exit from Tennessee, it now appears Madden Iamaleava will be heading to the University of California, Los Angeles after all.

NCAAF Rumors: UCLA expected to please Nico Iamaleava with a very special signing amid transfer portal frenzy

NCAAF Rumors: UCLA expected to please Nico Iamaleava with a very special signing amid transfer portal frenzy - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee Volunteers</a> have now learned officially from Nico Iamaleava that the 20-year-old quarterback has transferred to the UCLA Bruins on the opposite coast of the country. According to reports, the Volunteers might have a trick up their sleeves, with the perfect comeback to settle their dispute with their former signal caller.



These are the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" rel="nofollow">NCAA</a> groundrules every program must adapt to now. NIL and endorsement deals have taken over, with the transfer portal ever looming, watching closely to provide an emergency slide for any player who is looking for new horizons. Fundamentalists are still struggling to accept this new reality, with personalities like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/former-heisman-winner-cam-newton-issues-harsh-financial-reminder-for-nico-iamaleava-amid-ucla-rumors">Cam Newton voicing a bold statement against Iamaleava</a>—but that’s just the way it is, and all signs point to it staying that way moving forward.



In that context, Iamaleava and the Volunteers starred in the biggest storyline of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>’s spring period, a time when most teams are simply focused on locking in the right players for each role. Tennessee had no doubts that Iamaleava was their best option at starting quarterback, but the 20-year-old star was far from satisfied with his earnings. 



A debate like that would’ve been neither here nor there just a few years ago — but in today’s college sports landscape, it ultimately triggered an urgent, if not last-minute, search for a new quarterback in Knoxville.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250421_BUS_382148_Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-1024x576_5a723bdb.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Nico Iamaleava, former Tennessee Volunteers quarterback, has entered the NCAA transfer portal." class="wp-image-378473" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/17123634/Nico-Iamaleava-8-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-walks-off-the-field-after-defeating-the-Florida-Gators.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers walks off the field after defeating the Florida Gators during their game at Neyland Stadium on October 12, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>An eye for an eye</h2>



However, the Vols might have found the best replacement for Iamaleava, who is now in Los Angeles. In an unexpected, yet almost perfect turn of events, Tennessee and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> might end up pulling off somewhat of a trade in college football.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/ncaaf-news-nico-iamaleava-sends-heartfelt-message-to-volunteers-after-committing-to-ucla"></div>


According to reports from ESPN‘s Chris Low, Tennessee has interest in UCLA QB Joey Aguilar. Aguilar will enter the portal on Monday, and Low added the two parties will have talks soon. The two schools completing what would on paper be a trade, would be a very accurate representation of today’s NCAA, where the line with professional sports grows more blurred by the minute.



<h2>Aguilar’s numbers</h2>



Aguilar’s arrival in Knoxville makes sense, as Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel hopes for a proven starter to command his team into another playoff appearance. Following last season’s first round loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Vols will now be looking to take another step towards, hopefully, a National Championship.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250421_BUS_382148_Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-1024x576_9f045ce1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-382199" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21163542/Joey-Aguilar-4-of-the-Appalachian-State-Mountaineers-celebrates-after-winning-The-Avocados-From-Mex.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Joey Aguilar #4 of the Appalachian State Mountaineers celebrates after winning The Avocados From Mexico Cure Bowl against the Miami (Oh) Redhawks at FBC Mortgage Stadium on December 16, 2023 in Orlando, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



Aguilar had just transferred to UCLA ahead of the 2025 season, but as the Bruins announced Iamaleava’s arrival, the senior-year quarterback has entered the transfer portal, where Tennessee has reportedly emerged as a strong candidate.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6806ac776322de585807ad9c" data-title="Who will have the better season in 2025: Iamaleava with UCLA, or Aguilar? (Regardless of where he trasnfers to)" data-options="2"></div>


After two seasons as the starting quarterback for the Appalachian State Mountaineers, Aguilar appeared in 25 games, completing 511 passes for 6,760 yards, 56 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions, with an average passer rating of 143.0. He also contributed on the ground, rushing for 452 yards and five touchdowns over that span.

Dish better served cold: Tennessee plans perfect response after losing Nico Iamaleava to UCLA

NCAAF Rumors: Tennessee plans fitting, cold-blooded response after losing Nico Iamaleava to UCLA - Bolavip US

NCAAF Rumors: Tennessee plans fitting, cold-blooded response after losing Nico Iamaleava to UCLA

Nico Iamaleava has been one of the main storylines in college football over the past few weeks after announcing his decision to enter the Transfer Portal in search of a new team for the upcoming season. With his move to the UCLA Bruins now confirmed, the talented quarterback bid farewell to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee Volunteers</a> program with a heartfelt message.



What few believed would actually happen has finally come true. Iamaleava will no longer be seen in the NCAAF wearing orange and white, as he has now decided to take his talents to the West Coast. His transfer, however, has sparked endless reactions and stirred up plenty of conversation around the college football world.



Now that his departure from the program is confirmed, the focus shifts to what options Josh Heupel has to replace him—a task that will be anything but easy. For now, the only certainty is that the goal remains unchanged: reaching the National Championship.



<h2>Iamaleava’s message to the Vols</h2>



With his move to the Bruins now official, it was Iamaleava himself who took to his official X account to share a heartfelt message with the entire Tennessee community, thanking them for their unwavering support throughout his time with the Vols.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250421_BUS_381545_Nico-Iamaleava-10-1024x576_6f6b2b01.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Nico Iamaleava" class="wp-image-381643" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/21131816/Nico-Iamaleava-10.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers drops back to pass during the first quarter of the game againist the Kentucky Wildcats at Neyland Stadium on November 02, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee.</figcaption></figure>



“First and foremost, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for His grace, for continuing to bless my family, and for allowing me to live out my passion each and every day. To the amazing people in Knoxville, thank you for embracing and uplifting me throughout my time there. I’ll be forever thankful for the support you showed me every step of the way and I’ll always cherish the relationships I built there and the memories I created with my brothers. I believe with all my heart that I gave my all as a Volunteer. I’m truly grateful for the time I had at UT.



My journey at UT has come to an end. This decision was incredibly difficult, and truthfully, not something I expected to make this soon. But I trust God’s timing, and I believe He’s leading me where I need to be. Even though, this chapter is ending, a new chapter has begun and I am committed to UCLA!“


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/former-heisman-winner-cam-newton-issues-harsh-financial-reminder-for-nico-iamaleava-amid-ucla-rumors"></div>


<h2>The reasons behind Iamaleava’s departure</h2>



There has been plenty of talk surrounding the reasons why Nico Iamaleava decided to enter the Transfer Portal ahead of preparations for a new <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">NCAAF</a> season. While it can certainly be seen as a new athletic challenge, the reality is that the quarterback was also seeking an improvement in his NIL deals.



Tennessee and Iamaleava decided to part ways after they couldn’t come to terms on a revised NIL agreement for the quarterback. The redshirt sophomore was reportedly aiming for a $4 million annual NIL deal, a considerable increase from his previous agreement, which was reportedly worth $2.2 million.



Although the agreement between the QB and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA Bruins</a> has not yet been reported, one would assume that the West Coast program has likely come closer to meeting the financial expectations set by the player.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6806809c6322de585807ad79" data-title="Will Nico Iamaleava take the Bruins to the next National Championship?" data-options="2"></div>

NCAAF News: Nico Iamaleava sends heartfelt message to Volunteers after committing to UCLA - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cam-newton">Cam Newton</a> became one of the most iconic quarterbacks in college football history, particularly during his time with the Auburn Tigers. Most importantly, Newton managed to build a lasting legacy and personal brand—long before the NIL era. Now, as Nico Iamaleava has decided to end his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers and is reportedly set to enroll at UCLA, the 2010 Heisman trophy winner has shared a blunt lesson for the 20-year-old quarterback.



Regardless of the coaching staff, the athletic director, or the prestigious name stitched across the front of the jersey, no college football program seems truly safe from the risks brought on by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> transfer portal and the new era shaped by NIL, endorsement deals, and a growing loss of connection to school and community.



Iamaleava’s announcement to leave <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Tennessee</a> is just another example of the current state of collegiate sports. However, while opinions differ on the former Vols quarterback’s decision, Auburn legend Cam Newton chimed in with a clear message.



“Whoever advised this kid to sit out and chase in hopes for more money is a fool,” Newton said during the latest episode of his show, the 4th&amp;1 podcast. “Because the reality is this [money] is just to make your college experience comfortable. This is not forever money. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250417_BUS_378458_Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-1024x576_6174efcc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cam Newton, former quarterback of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-111547" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Cam-Newton-former-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cam Newton, former quarterback of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



“You have to understand that even though you’re talking about millions and millions of dollars, this ain’t it. You’re 19 years old, but that money ain’t going to last past 24.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/amid-georgias-qb-uncertainty-kirby-smart-drops-stern-statement-on-nico-iamaleava-entering-the-transfer-portal"></div>

 


<h2>Los Angeles bound?</h2>



The 10-day transfer portal window opened on April 16, with thousands of players across the nation switching their address in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>. However, the biggest storyline is Iamaleava’s, who decided to end his tenure with the Vols ahead of his junior year.



According to multiple reports, the signal-caller has already made up his mind about his next destination after stepping away from the program in Knoxville. Nico Iamaleava is expected to transfer to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> , according to reports from The New York Times.



<h2>New surroundings</h2>



Iamaleava would be joining the Bruins in the Big Ten Conference, hoping to spark an immediate change to the program that finished last season with a 5-7 (3-6 Big Ten) record, missing out on a bowl game appearance.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="680137e50c8fd1e7fdf270c8" data-title="How many wins will Iamaleava and UCLA secure next season?" data-options="3"></div>


The 20-year-old quarterback and UCLA will be up for a big challenge in the 2025 NCAA season. According to ESPN, the Bruins face the 19th toughest schedule in the upcoming campaign. Key matchups include: Penn State, Indiana, Ohio State, Nebraska, and USC.

Cam Newton drops blunt lesson for Nico Iamaleava amid transfer portal buzz, UCLA rumors

NCAAF News: Volunteers HC Josh Heupel sends strong message following Nico Iamaleava’s departure

Former Heisman winner Cam Newton issues harsh financial reminder for Nico Iamaleava amid UCLA rumors - Bolavip US

Former Heisman winner Cam Newton issues harsh financial reminder for Nico Iamaleava amid UCLA rumors

The 2024-25 NCAA season ended in heartbreak for the LSU Fighting Tigers, as their journey in March Madness reached its end against the UCLA Bruins. Following the soul-crushing 72-65 loss at Spokane Arena, former Louisiana State star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/angel-reese">Angel Reese</a> issued a concise, yet vivid statement.



For the second time in as many seasons, LSU witnessed their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season come to an end in the Elite Eight round of March Madness. A catastrophic second quarter was the decisive point in a grueling matchup between the Bruins and Tigers. 



UCLA took the lead into the halftime and never looked back, despite LSU’s constant pressure. The Bruins moved on to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament’s Final Four for the first time in program history, while the Tigers failed on their hope of a second championship.



Angel Reese was the soul of LSU’s national champion team, leading the Tigers during their magical run in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a> 2023, defeating Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes in the decisive stage. However, Reese is no longer in college basketball and couldn’t help turn the tide for her alma mater during their loss to UCLA.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250330_BUS_367107_Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-1024x576_d7fdec77.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-367111" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Angel Reese #10 of the LSU Tigers looks on during the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at MVP Arena on April 01, 2024 in Albany, New York.</figcaption></figure>



Reese’s helplessness led her to drop a candid six-word message aiming at the game official, as the ticket to the Final Four slipped through <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lsu">LSU</a>‘s fingers.


 

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/ncaab-news-angel-reese-sends-3-word-message-to-usc-star-juju-watkins-after-season-ending-injury-in-march-madness"></div>


“These refs man [shaking my head],” Angel Reese posted on her X, formerly Twitter, account. Prior to that, Reese had posted a message of support for the Tigers, stating: “We gotta fight! Come on.”



<h2>Aneesah Morrow’s incident</h2>



Midway through the third quarter, LSU’s Aneesah Morrow collided with teammate Sa’Myah Smith, who was pushed by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> star Lauren Betts into Morrow. The senior Tigers player suffered an injury to her nose, which was bleeding as she had to step away from the court.





Morrow would return during the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to spark the comeback and LSU’s season came to an end in Spokane. “My nose was bleeding. But I’m tough, and I’m gonna go and try to compete for my team,” Morrow later stated, per The Advocate reporter Reed Darcey.

Angel Reese issues vivid 6-word comment after LSU's elimination in March Madness vs UCLA

Angel Reese&#039;s Net Worth: What is her WNBA rookie contract salary and endorsements earnings

NCAAB News: LSU icon Angel Reese drops blunt comment after Tigers' March Madness elimination to UCLA - Bolavip US

Angel Reese drops blunt message after LSU's March Madness elimination

NCAAB News: LSU icon Angel Reese drops blunt comment after Tigers’ March Madness elimination to UCLA

The Duke Blue Devils have had their fair share of superstar prospects in their ranks. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>must be one of the most unique in terms of skills and size.



The Maine native is a guard trapped in a big man’s body. His ability to pull up over every defender on the court translates to the pros, and he’s also a very good defensive player.



That’s why even the opposition has no choice but to tip their hats to him. That happened again when UCLA coach Mick Cronin used one big word to describe him: Generational.



<h2>Mick Cronin says Cooper Flagg is ‘generational’</h2>



“He’s the best player in the country,” Cronin said. “Cooper Flagg is generational… This kid’s got the makeup as far as his drive, the off the court, the mental, he’s a perennial All-Star in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>for many years.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250301_BUS_345247_UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576_2f0e93bf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA head coach Mick Cronin looks on during a game." class="wp-image-296182" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA head coach Mick Cronin </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Cooper Flagg is the ultimate stat-sheet stuffer</h2>



Everybody raves about offense in today’s game, and rightfully so. Unfortunately, that makes plenty of players do not take pride in playing defense anymore, but that’s not the case with Flagg.


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So far, he’s averaged 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 1.4 three-pointers per game on 49/37/82 shooting splits. He’s the most well-rounded prospect in the nation.

UCLA coach has one word to describe Duke’s Cooper Flagg

UCLA coach has one word to describe Duke's Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

The 2024-25 UCLA Bruins are known around <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> for two things: Their strong defense and Mick Cronin’s signature rants, even when his team is doing well.



That was the case again after their win over Indiana. With his team being on the road yet again, the controversial head coach made sure that everybody got a piece of his mind.



Following the triumph, he took a big shot at Big Ten schedule makers, stating that all the traveling might be taking a toll on his players and stressing the importance of academics.



<h2>Mick Cronin complains about UCLA’s schedule</h2>



“We need to get these kids back home, academics matter. For us, it’s three of these trips, plus the Big Ten Tournament. For me, I’d like one day off in between. In defense of the Big Ten coaches, we were used to one day in the Pac-12. That would be my request,” Cronin said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250218_BUS_339038_UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576_aae331cf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA head coach Mick Cronin looks on during a game." class="wp-image-296182" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA head coach Mick Cronin </figcaption></figure>



The Bruins played two games away from home in just four days. First, they suffered a setback to the Illinois Fighting Illini on Tuesday before facing the Hoosiers on Friday.


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Of course, that’s far from ideal, but it’s the same way for everybody. This is just a part of the game, and it’s on him as a coach to make sure to tweak his rotations to keep everybody fresh down the stretch.

NCAAB News: UCLA’s Mick Cronin takes a big shot at Big Ten schedules

NCAAB News: UCLA's Mick Cronin takes a big shot at Big Ten schedules - Bolavip US

The UCLA Bruins started the season with a bang. They had one of the best — if not the best — defenses in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> and looked like a legitimate dark horse.



That’s no longer the case. They’ve lost multiple games, and to add insult to injury, head coach Mick Cronin has made the rounds for all the wrong reasons, calling out his players and throwing them under the bus after every loss.



That’s why it wasn’t much of a surprise to see him do the same again after losing to Rutgers. In spite of all the criticism he’s gotten for this, Cronin continued to blame his players. 



<h2>UCLA coach blames three players for loss to Rutgers</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We’re missing wide open shots,” Cronin said. “I mean, go on the road, take care of the ball, you only get nine turnovers. Obviously Tyler [Bilodeau] had a tough night. Their physicality bothered him, clearly, but he missed some open looks too, had a lot of open looks.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250115_BUS_314311_Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576_c493b6ac.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies." class="wp-image-295584" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies.</figcaption></figure>



Cronin continued to point the finger at his players. Never once did he also acknowledge that the coaching staff had something to do with yet another avoidable setback:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Lazar [Stefanovic] off a play we ran. He’s unguarded, Eric Dailey [Jr] unguarded top of the key. He was 0-for-3… we had a lot of open looks. We never trailed the first half. Maybe we could have got up 10 or so. He [Kobe Johnson] made a really bad decision with his foul in the backcourt. 75 ft from the basket to just, he just whacked the guy, it was a foul. You know it’s a bad decision. Didn’t help,” he added.</blockquote>


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Needless to say, these comments will continue to rub people the wrong way. And while accountability is important, the coach should also lead by example, and he might lose his players’ trust with these kinds of statements.

NCAAB News: Mick Cronin throws UCLA players under the bus again

NCAAB News: Mick Cronin throws UCLA players under the bus again - Bolavip US

Not so long ago, UCLA looked like a legitimate contender for the National Championship. Their defense was among the best in the nation, and it wasn’t particularly close.



However, that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore. The No. 22 Bruins lost 75-94 to No. 4 Michigan, and coach Mick Cronin went viral after throwing his players under the bus.



The renowned coach didn’t mince his words about his players, ripping them and their effort in the loss and stating that they just didn’t want to win the game and were ‘soft.’



<h2>Mick Cronin calls his players ‘soft and delusional’</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Don’t tell me you want to win,” the coach said, angrily. “You start the game, Tyler Bilodeau gave up 12 points. Two screens, he didn’t say a word, 3s, and then he got dunked on three times. So, just don’t tell me you want to win. I mean, we’re soft.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250110_BUS_310459_UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576_5fcb0963.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA head coach Mick Cronin looks on during a game." class="wp-image-296182" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA head coach Mick Cronin looks on during a game.</figcaption></figure>



The coach didn’t stop there. If that wasn’t enough, he also ripped his players’ attitude and demeanor, going as far as to say that they were ‘delusional’ and full of themselves: 



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I have to run on the court to get guys to play hard,” Cronin said. “It’s crazy, and it’s every day. I’m tired of it. I’m upset with everybody in that locker room, my assistant coaches and my players. It’s really hard to coach people that are delusional. The hungry dog gets the bone. We’ve got guys that think they’re way better than they are. They’re nice kids. They’re completely delusional about who they are.”</blockquote>


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It must have been a very awkward couple of days on campus, and those comments might not do him any favors. The Bruins are now 2-2 in conference play and 11-4 for the season, and it’ll be interesting to see if they can bounce back after this.

NCAAB News: UCLA's Mick Cronin throws players under the bus in viral rant

NCAAB News: UCLA's Mick Cronin throws players under the bus in viral rant - Bolavip US

The UCLA Bruins couldn’t hold on to a double-digit lead to beat the UNC Tar Heels. Mick Cronin’s team led by as many as 18 points and wound up losing by two.



It was a hard-fought game at Madison Square Garden. Star forward Tyler Bilodeau got himself into foul trouble in the second half, so he had to watch from the bench for most of it.



Bilodeau picked up his fourth foul on a controversial block-charge call that seemingly could’ve gone either way. He wound up sitting for almost seven minutes.



<h2>Mick Cronin didn’t like the officiating</h2>



Needless to say, that rubbed the coach the wrong way. And while he didn’t necessarily want to talk about the officials, he acknowledged that it wound up changing the course of the game: 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299031_Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576_29643ea8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies." class="wp-image-295584" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies.</figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Tyler played great. I’m not going to comment on officiating. Him going out changed the game,” Cronin said. “If they hadn’t given him the charge, we would be having a different press conference. We kept him out until under five, especially with the way the game was being called. ““The only adjustment that mattered in the second half was Tyler Bilodeau’s fourth foul. Their lineup was not tough. The problem was that Bilodeau wasn’t in. We played four guards for the whole second half. They’ve got seven McDonald’s All-Americans and a great coach,” he added.</blockquote>


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The Bruins, perhaps the best defensive team in the entire nation, is now sitting on a 10-2 record, and they’ll host the Gonzaga Bulldogs for yet another high-flying matchup on Sunday.

NCAAB News: UCLA's Mick Cronin takes a shot at officiating

NCAAB News: UCLA's Mick Cronin takes a shot at officiating - Bolavip US

It’s been a while since UCLA took the NCAA championship home. Despite being one of the most prominent programs in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> history, the Bruins haven’t taken home the trophy since 1995.



Needless to say, that has put plenty of pressure on Mick Cronin and the program to put those woes behind them and go back to their glory days as soon as possible.



According to NCAA analyst Andy Katz, this might as well be the year they will be able to do so. Per his numbers and analysis, they have the best defense in all of the nation right now.



<h2>Analyst says UCLA defense can lead them to the national championship</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> “UCLA head coach Mick Cronin has the Bruins back in the national conversation as a potential deep NCAA tournament team and a Big Ten title contender. Here’s why—Number one: They’ve got the best defense in the country. They’re holding teams to an average of 55 points a game, and in their win over Arizona, Arizona only scored 54. That’s the fewest points Arizona has scored since 2020,” he said.</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241218_BUS_295982_Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576_66547e60.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies." class="wp-image-295584" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18084226/Mick-Cronin-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA Head Basketball Coach Mick Cronin expresses his feelings during the NCAA game between the UCLA Bruins and Washington Huskies.</figcaption></figure>



The Bruins have officially entered the top 20 of the AP Rankings. They’re now sitting at No. 18 after putting up a defensive masterpiece in their 57-54 win over Arizona, climbing nine spots.


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Of course, there’s still plenty of basketball to be played, and they still have to play against conference foes. Even so, it’s impossible not to feel great about this team with this kind of defense.

NCAAB News: Expert explains why UCLA is a serious title contender

NCAAB News: Expert explains why UCLA is a serious title contender - Bolavip US

Latest news from UCLA. Find out about all the news related to UCLA on bolavip.com/en

UCLA - Page 2