Both the Los Angeles Times and Bruin Report, which first broke the news, are reporting that UCLA center Aday Mara will not be back next season

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UCLA and USC are setting the pace, with others out of state also in the picture.

What actually happened?

I have read from “news” or “insider” sources that Mara came back from Spain and had a bunch of demands that he previously had not. I have read that he actually wasn’t expecting them, but wanted to see how Cronin reacted. From there the reports diverge. Everything from Mick told him to leave to Mick leaked the demands Mara asked him to keep confidential and the Mara family said that was their litmus test of Mick’s trustworthiness.

I guess multiple things can be true.

One thing is true is that we need a better AD.

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hire an interim HC, Frank Reich, to lead the team. Why not simply name him the HC and only for a year?

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Demare Dezeurn, a 2027 four-star slot receiver at Mission Hills (Calif.) Bishop Alemany who is ranked 103rd overall nationally in the class, landed an offer Tuesday on his visit to the Bruins’ first practice of spring camp.

He visited for games last season against Indiana in September and the finale against Fresno State.

Here’s what he told me moments ago after announcing his offer:

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Does UCLA have any interest?

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The Mountain West player of the year is headed to Westwood. Story to come.

are all the TP players there? Who is missing??

The state’s No. 1 recruit in the class spent time at both schools over the weekend:

His thoughts on UCLA and other programs showing interest, plus his April visit schedule:

On the Bruins who are mostly new to March Madness and others looking for a better result than their previous experience elsewhere:

UCLA strength and conditioning coach Corey Miller shared an update on social media Monday, before the Bruins open spring camp tomorrow.

Over the last eight weeks, Miller shared a graphic that stated 546 pounds of muscle was gained and 353 pounds of fat was lost throughout the winter training sessions.

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He has officially signed an NIL deal per internet report.
That’s a good start.

He was hurt much of last year and didn't contribute much to the 2024 season. I hope he finds another team and does well this year.

linked to UCLA...huge get, if true. This guy is a freak and would replace Schwesinger this coming season.

The hangup seems to be the NIL

A look at UCLA’s needs, holes to fill and its priorities as the transfer portal opens:

First final four in school history.! Awaits the winner of UConn /SC. Go Bruins!

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Thoughts from the 2026 Sherman Oaks (Calif.) Notre Dame product over the weekend:

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The latest two months after my last update on the Los Angeles-Loyola standout, with a few important developments since that day in late January.

And UCLA has made an equally strong impression as others get involved:

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UCLA's #1 ranked Bruins hung on for a 72-67 Elite Eight win over Kim (look at my outfit) Mulkey's #3 ranked LSU Tigers. UCLA's Gardiner and Jaquez were clutch from the 3 in the 2nd half especially in the 4th quarter. Nothing like having clutch players. The Bruins take on the winner of UConn/USC next Friday.

An update on JuJu Johnson and Donte’ Wright after landing offers from UCLA on their unofficial visit Sunday.

Got more from Johnson than Wright since I spoke to Johnson at the photoshoot and only exchanged messages with Wright after.