Here is the language from the Termination for Cause section of Cronin's contract that is most pertinent. It's actually fairly favorable to UCLA since the governing standard is "in University's judgment." If we do want to fire him for cause I think we'd have a decent chance of prevailing under this language given the significant negative media attention. Cronin will obviously sue and it will settle, but I'd guess it wouldn't be close to the buyout number.
(d) Failure to properly represent University and University’s athletic programs in private and public forums, including by the commission of, participation in, or condoning of any act, situation or occurrence that, in University’s judgment, brings Coach or University into public disrepute, embarrassment, contempt, scandal or ridicule. This subsection encompasses findings or determinations of violations during the Term from any institution of higher education