PORTAL PULSE v34: UCLA's Strategic Reset – Cronin's Vision Comes In Focus
The Bruins have lost six players to the transfer portal (Sebastian Mack, Aday Mara, Dylan Andrews, Devin Williams, William Kyle III, Dom Harris) while officially adding only Donovan Dent thus far. However, multiple sources indicate that UMKC’s Jamar Brown and USD’s Steven Jamerson II are expected to join UCLA's roster soon.
With returning production from Tyler Bilodeau, Eric Dailey Jr., and Skyy Clark, the Bruins' core remains intact—though additional portal activity could further bolster the rotation.
Donovan Dent (20.4 PPG, 6.4 APG, 41% 3PT) leads the backcourt, flanked by Skyy Clark (8.5 PPG, 39.7% 3PT) and Trent Perry (86.3% FT shooter). This trio gives Mick Cronin experienced guard play equipped with quality shooting and sound playmaking.
Tyler Bilodeau (13.5 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 40% 3PT) anchors the four-spot, while Eric Dailey Jr. (11.4 PPG, 38% 3PT) provides versatility. Steven Jamerson II (10 PPG, 8 RPG, 55.7% FG) would add depth at center, where UCLA needs size and activity. Brandon Williams (redshirt) will compete for minutes after two years in the system. Jamar Brown (17 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 40% 3PT) adds experience, rebounding, and shooting depth to the wing, while Eric Freeny (redshirt) brings big guard skills to UCLA’s perimeter attack.
Portal Targets
Several intriguing prospects have been linked to UCLA's recruiting efforts in recent weeks:
Tyrone Riley IV (USF): The freshman wing (9.6 PPG, 6 RPG, 2.6 SPG) has drawn significant attention from multiple high-major programs. His defensive activity and upside make him an interesting fit.
KJ Lewis (Arizona): The athletic guard (11 PPG, 63% at rim) brings transition scoring and backcourt versatility that could complement UCLA's existing pieces.
Naas Cunningham (Alabama): A former five-star with elite length and defensive versatility, the redshirt freshman could be a worthwhile developmental gamble. His local roots (SoCal Academy) and untapped potential make him an intriguing wing option.
Desmond Yiamu (France U18): The international prospect (13.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG) has emerged with intriguing size and skill on the perimeter.
Xavier Booker (Michigan State): The former McDonald's All-American (4.7 PPG) possesses length and mobility that translates well to Mick Cronin's system.
Dishon Jackson (Iowa State): Big, strong, experienced center from Oakland, CA. He would give UCLA some much-needed muscle up front.
Nick Pringle (South Carolina): SEC-tested toughness—but his fit depends on how the staff weighs upside versus risk.
Other names circulating include Washington's Tyler Harris (49.5% 3PT) and Wichita State's Quincy Ballard (2 BPG), but mutual interest hasn’t been confirmed.