Cori Close’s journey at UCLA has been a meticulously crafted narrative, one that she has been penning since her arrival as the head coach of the Bruins women’s basketball team. Over the last 15 years, her efforts in recruiting, teaching, and cultivating talent have all been building towards one monumental goal: the pursuit of the program’s first NCAA championship.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the Bruins find themselves in a prime position to achieve this elusive title. After their impressive run to the Final Four last year, the second-ranked Bruins have returned even stronger, boasting a roster that is not only deep but also teeming with talent. With a remarkable 20-1 overall record and a spotless 10-0 in conference play, they are currently in contention for the top overall seed in the NCAA tournament.
The roster is a blend of seasoned prowess and youthful exuberance, featuring standout players like Lauren Betts, whose dominance in the paint draws double and triple teams, rendering defenders virtually helpless. Her ability to control the game from the center is complemented by Kiki Rice, who possesses the dual threat of making precision passes and sinking crucial shots. Another key player, Gabriela Jaquez, has transformed from Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s scrappy little sister into a formidable star in her own right. Jaquez’s remarkable growth is underscored by her impressive three-point shooting, with a staggering 46.5% accuracy this season—an increase from her previous 24.4% during her sophomore year—making her a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Gianna Kneepkens’ shooting prowess, aiming for a rare 40-50-90 season, and Charlisse Leger-Walker’s savvy leadership add to the team’s formidable arsenal. Even Angela Dugalic, who would likely be a starter on most teams, has made her mark as a top reserve. With Sienna Betts, Lena Bilic, and Amanda Muse providing additional depth off the bench, this season stands as Close’s most complete team yet.
However, the road to a championship is not without its challenges. Despite the Bruins’ success, there have been frustrations, particularly regarding media coverage. Close has expressed disappointment over the lack of attention, especially after significant matchups, such as a top-10 showdown against Ohio State. To combat this, the team has initiated postgame Zoom sessions for reporters, a step that should help bolster visibility as March approaches.
Yet, perhaps the most pressing concern lies in the team’s singular loss this season, which echoed the haunting memories of their Final Four defeat against UConn. The Bruins fell behind by a staggering 23 points and struggled to mount a comeback—an alarming trend that could prove detrimental in the high-stakes atmosphere of the NCAA tournament. The lesson is clear: UCLA needs to avoid early deficits against top-tier opponents if they hope to secure victory in the tournament.
Looking ahead, the Bruins’ potential appears boundless. The foundation laid by Close, coupled with the dedication and talent of her players, sets the stage for a championship run. Anything less than a spot in the championship game might be seen as a disappointment, yet the belief that this team can ascend to the pinnacle of NCAA women’s basketball is palpable. With the right strategies, unwavering resolve, and a touch of luck, the Bruins have all the ingredients necessary to claim the title they’ve been striving for—a culmination of years of hard work and hope.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
