UCLA Basketball Could Hit the Big-Time Against New Mexico with Larger Lineup
UCLA forward William Kyle III (24) is wrapped up and fouled by Rider forward Tyriek Weeks (31) at Pauley Pavilion on Monday. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times)
UCLA Basketball Could Hit the Big-Time Against New Mexico with Larger Lineup
As UCLA basketball gears up for a crucial matchup against New Mexico, head coach Mick Cronin faces a significant decision regarding his lineup. After unveiling a small-ball starting five, Cronin must now determine whether to utilize the towering Aday Mara, a 7-foot-3 sophomore, or William Kyle III, a 6-foot-9 junior transfer, to counter the Lobos’ size.
A Critical Decision
Cronin’s choice could come into play as soon as Friday evening when the No. 22 Bruins (1-0) take on New Mexico (1-0) at the Las Vegas Hoopfest. The Lobos feature a formidable starting lineup that includes three players standing 6-foot-9 or taller, making it essential for UCLA to consider a bigger approach.
“I would anticipate us needing to play bigger against high-major teams like New Mexico,” Cronin stated, highlighting the need for adjustments against a larger opponent.
Player Profiles
Both Mara and Kyle bring unique strengths and weaknesses to the table.
- William Kyle III: Known for his athleticism, Kyle was the first player off the bench in UCLA’s season opener against Rider, where he showcased his defensive prowess with three blocks and five rebounds in just 11 minutes. However, Cronin has noted that Kyle needs to adopt a more aggressive mindset, suggesting that he can be too passive at times. After a strong practice, Kyle appears to be making strides in this area.
- Aday Mara: Mara is a more refined scorer and passer, making him a constant lob threat in the pick-and-roll scenario. He matched Kyle’s three blocks in the opener and added five points and two rebounds in nine minutes. Despite his improved conditioning, Mara is less agile than Kyle, which could pose challenges against faster opponents.
Facing a Tall Task
UCLA’s upcoming opponent, New Mexico, boasts a significant size advantage with 6-foot-10 center Nelly Junior Joseph and 6-foot-9 forwards Mustapha Amzil and Filip Borovicanin. Joseph had a standout performance in New Mexico’s season opener against Nicholls, scoring 28 points and grabbing 16 rebounds, while Amzil contributed with a double-double of his own.
In contrast, UCLA’s smaller lineup options include Tyler Bilodeau, a 6-foot-9 forward known for his quickness and skill, and Eric Dailey Jr., a 6-foot-8 forward who played significant minutes at the five position last season. Both Bilodeau and Dailey started in the opener due to their current performance levels.
Finding the Right Fit
Despite the focus on starting lineups, Cronin emphasized the importance of how the team finishes games. “I view us right now as having at least eight starters,” he said. “So I can pick and choose who I’m going to start, but during the game they’re all going to play.”
Adjusting to New Roles
One player still adjusting to his role is Dominick Harris, a redshirt senior and transfer from Loyola Marymount. Harris, expected to provide long-range shooting, had limited playing time in the opener, entering the game late with the Bruins holding a comfortable lead. Cronin noted that Harris’s late arrival and the need to adapt to the team’s defensive schemes have affected his minutes.
“We’re extremely accountable defensively, and that has been the biggest adjustment for him,” Cronin explained. “But he’s trying.”
Personal Connections
In a lighter note, Cronin expressed his long-standing relationship with New Mexico head coach Richard Pitino, noting that he has known him since Pitino joined his father, Rick Pitino, at Louisville in 2001. Cronin recounted a humorous incident involving a headache and a hangover, showcasing the camaraderie between the two coaches.
Honoring Legends
On a more serious note, Cronin addressed the push for statues of UCLA legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Walton next to John Wooden’s outside Pauley Pavilion. “There’s a lot of push from their teammates, and I’m right with them on all that,” he said, acknowledging the challenges of honoring such icons at a state school.
Conclusion
As UCLA prepares for its clash with New Mexico, Cronin’s decision on how to utilize his big men could prove pivotal. With a blend of talent and experience, the Bruins are looking to leverage their strengths against a formidable opponent, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting game.
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