Mick Cronin Quotations

We're going to play different guys on him. He's a major part of their offense.

We look at it as a tremendous challenge, an opportunity to play one of the great programs in college basketball and see where we stack up.

I know it's not going to be easy.

I do believe this was a great fit. I just need to prove that now.

I believe in developing relationships with the whole team. Not one player is above the team, including the coach. There is no special treatment. I don't care if you're talking about Reece Gaines or Kenyon Martin.

This could be a game that (6-foot-10 center) Pearson Griffith could have success. But I always think that, because he's bigger than any one we play. Our guys are trusting him and are looking to get him the ball. If we can get it to him around the rim he's going to be tough to stop.

He's very gracious to a young coach, as far as even knowing who somebody like me is. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Coach Williams, not only for him as person but way he does it.

They play a Big Ten style. They've recruited big strong players, and have done a great job recruiting to their needs. They have a tremendous tradition, from (Bruce) Weber, through (Matt) Painter, and now Lowery. They have always made defense a big part and their kids have bought into it. They take you out of your comfort zone and make it hard to run your offense.

I've been planning on this for the last three weeks. I knew it was a possibility when I got the job. In our first conversation, he asked for his release.

It obviously didn't help us, not having him. But we make no excuses.