Mick Cronin Criticized for Underutilizing Aday Mara

In a column for the Los Angeles Times, Bill Plaschke argues that Mara, who averaged just 13 minutes per game under Cronin, played 30 minutes in the title game and was "everywhere" for the champions. Plaschke suggests Mara’s presence could have elevated UCLA to at least the Sweet 16.

This critique adds to the mounting pressure on Cronin, who has faced scrutiny this season for on-court incidents and the team's overall performance.