The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 3 - UCLA HC Mick Cronin stops by The Herd, looking at the NBA playoff match ups
Apr 3, 2026
Rachel Nichols, NBA analyst known for sharp playoff takes, joins to preview first-round matchups and debate Luka’s health. Mick Cronin, UCLA head coach with deep NCAA experience, discusses UConn’s toughness, coaching culture, and how teams slow elite freshmen. They trade quick, punchy breakdowns of key matchups and why Victor Wembanyama could upend the playoff landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Stay Put When You Have Alignment And Support
- Stay at a stable job if you have NIL support and administrative alignment rather than job-hopping for marginal gains.
- Cronin advised top coaches rarely move between power schools unless there's misalignment with administration.
Top Players Want Honest, Straightforward Coaching
- Effective coaching requires honesty and tough feedback because elite players respond and improve from directness.
- Cronin referenced Kareem's demand for full critique as an example of how blunt coaching can unlock performance.
Three Teams Define The New NBA Landscape
- Colin sees the NBA shifting generationally with Spurs, Celtics, and OKC as title contenders due to depth and efficiency.
- He praised San Antonio's depth and Victor Wembanyama alongside Boston's clean offensive efficiency.