It's very clear that this kid is going to be something special - if he isn't there already. He's only going to get better. He has two college games under his belt and he is still adjusting and learning. He's going to get stronger and maybe even taller. Speaking of that, I think he's taller than his listed 6'9." He's already playing bigger than that with his long wingspan.
He does so many things well including his basketball thinking. He is talented and smart. He does have things he needs to clean up and I have no doubt he will. I was very impressed with him. I was impressed with him against Arizona, but last night he found his shot as well which was the missing element on Monday. He'll probably have his ups and downs, but he sure is off to a nice start.
The kid wanted to come to UCLA and play for Cronin. He's here because of Cronin. He's said as much. His defense will only get better and better. Cronin, IMO, was making Mara a much better all around player, and he will do the same for Kusturica. With Kusturica he has much more to work with even though I thought under Cronin's tutelage Mara was possibly on his way to being one of those special generational players or nearly so. He may still get there with his many special attributes. with Cronin he was building a stronger and stronger foundation that would have only made those special attributes more and more undeniable.
Kusturica, with all his talents, skills, physical attributes, as well as all his intangibles, will only benefit from a stronger foundation that Cronin can give him. That foundation will only make all those things he has going for him even stronger.
Along with Philon, Cronin has probably brought in one of the best freshmen duos in the nation - maybe even the best. We'll see how that plays out.