UCLA Basketball: Mick Cronin Praises 2 Bruins Stars For Effort Vs Oregon State

Two Bruins heavily impressed Mick Cronin during last night's victory.

The UCLA Bruins snapped their four-game losing streak last night after a big win against Oregon State. The final score of 69-62 was a testament to how the starters worked together defensively and offensively to start conference play on the right foot. 

Coach Mick Cronin has preached toughness and confidence for weeks, and it appears that two of the Bruins on the starting squad took that advice deep into their heart. 

Those players were Will McClendon and Adem Bona. Coach Cronin spoke highly of both young stars and explained that Bona should be leading the team and getting his hands on the ball as much as possible. 

“Will [McClendon] was great – six rebounds, 10 points, three assists. Adem [Bona] is just working. I think we just got to keep getting him the ball. I know he had some turnovers tonight, but he’s our most experienced guy with playing time. We got to keep getting him the ball because it puts pressure on your defense. We keep making him a better passer, keep working with him on his offense and just continue to grow.”

via 

UCLA Communications

Posting 6 rebounds, 10 points, and three assists is a sure-fire way to hype up the team. Bona also had his own stellar night with 13 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 blocks. He was all over the court, which is a big reason why Coach Cronin stated that the team needed to get him the ball.

Bona showed the kind of leadership and grit that can lead this team to big wins during conference play. Despite the past four losses, the Bruins showcased the skill that everyone expected the team to have. 

We shall see what comes of their next game against Oregon tomorrow, but should Bona and McClendon step up again—they will be hard to beat.