Michigan Basketball Rumors: Latest Coaching Breakthrough Has Matt Barnes Speculating

Juwan Howard’s surprise exit from Michigan has college basketball buzzing. Now there are multiple names going around for the potential candidate who can fill the vacant position. Meanwhile, ‘Hoop Herald’ on ‘X’ has hinted towards a well-known name from the coaching world. And Matt Barnes has his own speculations about this name.

Hoop Herald in its post has suggested that Mick Cronin can be the next coach for the Michigan. Barnes re-shared Hoop Herald’s X post on his Instagram story with the caption, “Blessing in disguise”. However, the caption also has a ‘thinking emoji’ in it, which indicates that even Matt Barnes is not completely sure about the possibility.

Michigan recently fired their men’s basketball coach Juwan Howard. The decision put an end to Howard’s 5 year run with Michigan Wolverines and it came after the Wolverines faced what is being said as their worst season in the last 60 years. The team finished last in the Big Ten for the first time since 1966-67. Notably, the team lost their final nine games and finished 8-24 overall and 3-17 in the conference.

Read More: Juwan Howard’s Coaching Record, Altercation: Debunking Real Reason Behind Michigan Basketball Drama

Although there have been multiple rumored names for the Wolverines’ consideration, UCLA coach Mick Cronin seems to be a prominent one. Cronin has had a sort of impeccable record as the UCLA Bruins coach. Of the 168 games played under Cronin, the Bruins have won 115 matches. He was also awarded with 2022-23 Pac-12 Coach of the Year. However, it is not going to be an easy task for the Wolverines to get Mick onboard.

Complications around Mick Cronin joining Michigan Wolverines

In March 2022, Cronin signed a 6-year extension with UCLA, keeping him there through the 2027-28 season. So there will be a massive buyout amount involved for Cronin to part ways with UCLA.

Meanwhile, another X user detailed on why Cronin may not be the best idea for Michigan at the moment. “This has to be a joke… would be a terrible hire for Michigan. One of the worst seasons in UCLA history this year. Cronin throws players and refs under the bus at press conferences when they lose,” he posted.

Moreover, Mick himself may not be interested in leaving UCLA, as he is known for his coaching longevity. He coached University of Cincinnati for 13 seasons before partis his ways with them. Additionally, despite the setback in recent season, Cronin has had successful with the UCLA. So, he could very well be hoping to bring Bruins their 12th NCAA championship.

What is your opinion of Mick Cronin joining Michigan? Do you think there is any possibility of the move?

Read More: “Would Have Been Fired Already”: Mick Cronin’s Relentless Persona Was Identified During Early UCLA Days