Long-Term Commitment to the Bruins

Cori Close, the head coach of the UCLA women’s basketball team, has officially signed a contract extension that will see her remain with the university through at least the 2029-30 season. The announcement follows a historic period for the program, which recently celebrated its first-ever NCAA national title.


Leadership and Legacy

Since taking over the program in 2011, Close has established herself as a cornerstone of UCLA athletics. She holds a career record of 358-144 and holds the distinction of being the first coach in the team's history to surpass 300 victories. Athletic director Martin Jarmond praised her impact, stating:

«Winning a national championship is a tremendous achievement, but what truly stands out with Cori is the character, leadership and daily commitment she and her staff bring to help developing her players into the best versions of themselves.»

Building a Championship Program

Under Close’s guidance, the Bruins have evolved into a national powerhouse, highlighted by 10 NCAA Tournament appearances and two Final Four berths. Their most recent campaign ended in a decisive 79-51 victory over South Carolina in the national championship game.

Her coaching excellence has been widely recognized, earning her consecutive honors as the national coach of the year from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. Her trophy cabinet also includes the 2024-25 Associated Press, Naismith, and Women’s Basketball Coaches Association coach of the year awards.


WNBA Draft Success

The strength of Close’s development program was on full display during last month’s WNBA Draft, where UCLA set new records:

  • Six players from the Bruins were drafted overall.
  • Five players were selected in the first round, breaking the previous record of four held by UConn.

Draft picks included Lauren Betts (No. 4, Washington Mystics), Gabriela Jaquez (No. 5, Chicago Sky), Kiki Rice (No. 6, Toronto Tempo), Angela Dugalić (No. 9, Washington Mystics), Gianna Kneepkens (No. 15, Connecticut Sun), and Charlisse Leger-Walker (No. 19, Connecticut Sun).


Reflecting on her future in Westwood, Close expressed her gratitude and ambition: «I love being here in Westwood, and I am so excited for what the future holds. It fills me with such joy to do this with our village, and I hope we can continue to make our Bruin faithful proud.»