Mick Cronin’s first UCLA team provided template Bruins must embrace

UCLA players huddle before their 65-56 loss to Villanova on Saturday. UCLA’s young roster has been experiencing some growing pains this season.PHILADELPHIA — Holding firm for a half, UCLA folded against a tougher opponent in the final minutes. The Bruins’ youth could be seen in repeated mistakes.

The loss dropped the Bruins’ record to 5-3. Their victories included one over Chaminade in the Maui Invitational but none against teams from major conferences.

The year was 2019 … and 2023.

UCLA’s sputtering start to this season is reminiscent of coach Mick Cronin’s first season in Westwood. That team relied heavily on freshmen and sophomores as well, the Bruins struggling for 2½ months before Cronin…