UCLA Bruins Embark on 2023 Overseas Basketball Tour in Spain
Mick Cronin's Program Gears Up for Intensive 10-Day Trip Including Three Exciting Games
In preparation for the upcoming 2023 season, Mick Cronin and the UCLA Bruins are embarking on a 10-day basketball journey overseas to Spain. While the trip might sound like a leisurely vacation, it’s far from that. This venture is a crucial part of Cronin’s strategic plan to enhance the team’s performance.
Today, the majority of the Bruins’ roster touched down in Spain, marking the commencement of their excursion. During this span, the team is scheduled to engage in three thrilling games. Here’s a look at the game schedule according to BruinReportOnline:
- Aug. 22: UCLA vs. Madrid All-Stars (Madrid, Spain)
- Aug. 24: UCLA vs. Valencia Basket (Valencia, Spain)
- Aug. 29: UCLA vs Girona CB (Girona, Spain)
The advantages of this international trip are evident. By opting for this exhibition schedule, the Bruins gained an extra set of practices granted by the NCAA, which contributed to their preparations for this journey. Considering UCLA’s predominantly new roster, Cronin’s decision to align the trip with this phase was a strategic one.
Beyond honing their on-court skills, building off-court camaraderie is equally vital for the team’s progress. This period grants Cronin the opportunity to experiment with various lineups without the pressure of real-game consequences. However, it’s worth noting that three key players will be absent from these games. Adem Bona is still recovering from a shoulder procedure and will only participate in on-court drills. European recruits Berke Buyuktuncel and Aday Mara will also sit out these games.
While these games might not be broadcasted on television, the anticipation surrounding the team’s performance is palpable. Of particular interest is the dynamic guard rotation featuring Dylan Andrews, Sebastian Mack, and Jan Vide.
With players like Bona, Buyuktuncel, and Mara absent from the frontcourt, senior Kenny Nwuba is expected to step up as the starting post player. True freshman Devin Williams will likely see significant playing time, and fellow newcomer Brandon Williams is also poised to contribute at the four spot for the Bruins during these exhibition matches.
As the countdown to the 2023 season continues, all eyes are on the UCLA Bruins as they embrace this exciting and challenging opportunity to test their skills on the international stage.
