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UCLA Four-Star Target Fits Perfectly with Coach Mick Cronin

UCLA Bruins Coach Mick Cronin Opens Up on Recruiting Top Prospect AJ Dybantsa and Emerging Talent Anthony Felesi

In the ever-competitive world of college basketball recruiting, few programs carry the weight and tradition of the UCLA Bruins. Under the guidance of head coach Mick Cronin, the team has been navigating a transformative period, blending its storied history with modern recruiting strategies to attract the nation's elite high school talents. Recently, Cronin has been vocal about his pursuit of two standout prospects: AJ Dybantsa, widely regarded as the top recruit in the class of 2025, and Anthony Felesi, a promising forward whose skills have caught the eye of several Power Five programs. Cronin's comments shed light on the Bruins' aggressive approach to building a roster capable of contending in the newly expanded Big Ten Conference, where UCLA will face stiffer competition starting next season.

AJ Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 forward from Prolific Prep in Napa, California, has been the crown jewel of the 2025 recruiting cycle. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill has drawn comparisons to some of the game's all-time greats, making him a must-have for any program aiming for national relevance. Dybantsa, who reclassified from the 2026 class to accelerate his path to college and potentially the NBA, has already visited several top schools, including Kansas, Auburn, and BYU. However, UCLA's proximity to his home state and the program's legacy of developing NBA stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, and more recently, Jaime Jaquez Jr., position the Bruins as a serious contender in his recruitment.

Cronin, known for his no-nonsense coaching style and emphasis on defense and fundamentals, didn't mince words when discussing Dybantsa. He highlighted the young star's versatility, noting how Dybantsa's ability to handle the ball like a guard while dominating in the post could revolutionize UCLA's offensive schemes. "AJ is the kind of player who changes everything," Cronin said in a recent interview. "He's got that rare blend of size and skill that you don't see often. We're building something special here at UCLA, and a guy like him fits perfectly into what we're trying to do—win championships and prepare players for the pros." Cronin's enthusiasm is palpable, as he elaborated on the recruiting process, emphasizing personal relationships and the unique opportunities UCLA offers, such as its location in Los Angeles, access to world-class facilities, and a coaching staff with proven track records in player development.

The recruitment of Dybantsa isn't just about talent acquisition; it's a strategic move for UCLA as they transition to the Big Ten. The conference, now including former Pac-12 rivals like USC, Washington, and Oregon, promises grueling matchups against powerhouses such as Purdue, Michigan State, and Illinois. Cronin has been upfront about the challenges ahead, stating that landing top recruits like Dybantsa is essential to maintaining UCLA's competitive edge. "The Big Ten is a beast," Cronin remarked. "You need players who can handle the physicality and the spotlight. AJ has that killer instinct; he's not afraid of the big stage." This sentiment underscores Cronin's recruiting philosophy, which prioritizes not only skill but also mental toughness and work ethic—qualities he believes Dybantsa embodies.

Beyond Dybantsa, Cronin also touched on Anthony Felesi, a 6-foot-8 forward from the class of 2025 who has been generating buzz with his performances on the AAU circuit. Felesi, hailing from Hawaii, brings a unique international flavor to his game, influenced by his diverse background and exposure to various playing styles. His athleticism, rebounding prowess, and improving perimeter shooting make him a versatile piece for any frontcourt. UCLA has been actively pursuing Felesi, with Cronin praising his potential to contribute immediately. "Anthony is a diamond in the rough," Cronin explained. "He's got the tools to be a multi-year contributor and grow into a leader. We're excited about what he could bring to our program—energy, toughness, and that relentless drive to improve."

Felesi's recruitment story adds an intriguing layer to UCLA's efforts. Unlike Dybantsa, who has been in the national spotlight for years, Felesi has risen more steadily, earning offers from schools like Arizona State, San Diego State, and now UCLA. Cronin detailed how the Bruins' staff identified Felesi early through scouting trips and film study, emphasizing the importance of building genuine connections. "Recruiting isn't just about the glamour visits; it's about showing a kid you believe in him," Cronin said. "We've had great conversations with Anthony and his family, and we see him thriving in our system." This approach reflects Cronin's broader strategy, which has successfully landed talents like Adem Bona and Dylan Andrews in recent years, helping UCLA reach the Sweet 16 in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.

The pursuit of both Dybantsa and Felesi comes at a pivotal time for UCLA. After a disappointing 2023-24 season that saw the Bruins miss the NCAA Tournament for the first time under Cronin, the program is under pressure to rebound. Cronin, who took over in 2019 and quickly turned the team around with a Final Four appearance in 2021, is focused on reloading the roster. He discussed the integration of new transfers and returning players, but stressed that high school recruiting remains the foundation. "We want guys who buy into the UCLA way—hard work, defense, and team-first basketball," he noted. "AJ and Anthony both fit that mold."

Cronin's comments also delved into the evolving landscape of college basketball, including the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal. He acknowledged that while these elements have changed recruiting dynamics, UCLA's brand and resources give them an advantage. "NIL is part of the game now, but it's not everything," Cronin asserted. "Players like AJ are looking for development, exposure, and a path to the NBA. We offer all that and more." For Dybantsa, who has expressed interest in programs that prioritize professional preparation, UCLA's track record—boasting over 100 NBA alumni— is a significant draw.

As for Felesi, Cronin highlighted specific aspects of his game that align with UCLA's needs. "He's a rebounding machine with great hands and footwork," Cronin said. "In the Big Ten, you need guys who can battle in the paint, and Anthony has that grit." The coach also mentioned plans for official visits, indicating that both prospects could soon step foot on the Pauley Pavilion court, experiencing the electric atmosphere that has defined UCLA basketball for decades.

Looking ahead, the potential addition of Dybantsa and Felesi could signal a new era for the Bruins. Dybantsa, with his scoring ability averaging over 20 points per game in high school, could form a dynamic duo with current stars like Sebastian Mack or incoming freshmen. Felesi, meanwhile, might provide depth and versatility off the bench, evolving into a starter as he develops. Cronin wrapped up his thoughts by reiterating his commitment to excellence. "We're not just recruiting players; we're building a family," he said. "UCLA is where legends are made, and we're ready to welcome the next ones."

In summary, Mick Cronin's insights into recruiting AJ Dybantsa and Anthony Felesi reveal a coach laser-focused on restoring UCLA to its championship pedigree. With the Big Ten looming and the stakes higher than ever, these pursuits could define the Bruins' future. As the recruiting battles heat up, all eyes will be on whether Cronin can land these prized talents and propel UCLA back to the top of college basketball.

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Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/college/ucla/men-s-basketball/bruins-mick-cronin-aj-dybantsa-anthony-felesi ]