UCLA’s Mick Cronin Makes Surprising Move, Bringing Back Former Player David Singleton as Assistant Coach

Singleton set the school record for most games played with 164 while playing a fifth year allowed by the NCAA because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He ranks third on the career list for 3-pointers made with 219. He averaged 5.7 points and 1.8 rebounds during his career.

“I’m looking forward to adding to the legacy and program in any way that I can as an assistant coach,” he said in a statement.“He’s always had his eye on becoming a coach, and we are thrilled that we can add him to our staff,” Cronin said in a statement Wednesday. “He understands what it takes to get a team to perform at a high level.”Singleton spent the last two years playing in the NBA G League with the Atlanta Hawks’ affiliate in Georgia.He helped UCLA reach the NCAA Tournament Final Four in 2021. He also helped the Bruins make the tournament in 2022 and in 2023, when they made the Sweet 16. As a fifth-year senior, Singleton and the Bruins won the Pac-12 regular-season title.David Singleton’s journey from the hardwood floors of UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion to the sidelines as an assistant coach under Mick Cronin is nothing short of compelling. After five grueling seasons wearing the Bruins’ jersey—including a memorable run to the NCAA Final Four in 2021 and back-to-back tournament appearances in ’22 and ’23—Singleton is coming home. Spending the past couple of years honing his skills in the NBA G League with Atlanta’s affiliate, he’s now pivoting from player to mentor, bringing a wealth of firsthand experience and a fresh perspective. It’s rare to see a player so deeply woven into the fabric of a program return with such purpose—especially one who set the school record for games played and ranks third all-time in three-pointers made. Mick Cronin’s excitement isn’t just talk; it’s a testament to Singleton’s understanding of what it takes to elevate a team’s performance. As someone who’s watched this scene unfold for years, I gotta say—it’s the kind of full-circle moment that lifts a program and fires up a fanbase. Singleton’s ready to build on his academic roots with a sociology degree and contribute in ways only a true Bruin can. What’s next on this path? You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled. LEARN MORE

Singleton said he’s grateful to return to his alma mater, where he graduated in 2023 with a sociology degree.LOS ANGELES — David Singleton, who played five seasons for UCLA, is returning to Westwood as an assistant coach under Mick Cronin.