BREAKING: In an unprecedented move, UCLA head coach Mick Cronin ejected his own player, Steven Jamerson, during a blowout loss to Michigan State on July 15, 2023. The incident occurred with just 4:26 remaining in the game, which ended with a score of 82-59 at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.
The shocking ejection came after Jamerson committed a flagrant foul against Michigan State’s Carson Cooper, knocking him down as he attempted a two-handed dunk. “I think it was a little dirty,” Cooper said, highlighting the intensity of the moment. This incident marked a rare occurrence in college basketball history, as coaches typically do not eject their own players.
With Michigan State leading by 27 points, Jamerson’s foul was met with immediate backlash. Cooper, visibly upset, confronted Jamerson on the court, prompting officials to intervene. Coach Cronin did not hesitate; before officials could finalize the flagrant foul and technical fouls, he directed Jamerson off the court, sending him to the locker room.
“I was thoroughly disappointed,” Cronin stated. “If you want to be a tough guy, you need to do it during the game for a block out, for a rebound. The guy was defenseless in the air.” His firm stance reflects a growing trend in collegiate sports where coaches prioritize player safety and discipline.
Michigan State’s head coach, Tom Izzo, expressed surprise at Cronin’s reaction, saying, “I guess he upgraded that to a flagrant 2. That’s the first time I saw a coach do it but that sounds like Mick so he’ll get that straightened out.” This incident highlights the emotional stakes involved in college basketball, where competitive spirit can sometimes lead to dangerous situations.
The implications of this ejection extend beyond the game itself, raising questions about player conduct and coaching accountability. As college basketball fans process this unusual event, all eyes will be on how UCLA addresses Jamerson’s actions moving forward.
What happens next for Jamerson and the Bruins remains to be seen, but this incident serves as a stark reminder of the intensity and unpredictability of college sports. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.