The numbers
Cori Close has made a significant impact on UCLA women’s basketball, leading the team to a remarkable record of 35-1 this season. Under her guidance, the Bruins achieved their first-ever Final Four appearance in the 2024-25 season, marking a historic milestone for the program.
Close, who has been the head coach at UCLA since 2011, has accumulated 350 wins during her tenure. Her coaching prowess was recognized in 2025 when she won all four major national Coach of the Year awards, highlighting her exceptional leadership and the success of her team.
In a recent game against Texas, UCLA faced a tough challenge, ultimately losing with a score of 76 to 65. The Bruins trailed by 20 points at halftime but managed to cut the deficit to just four points in the fourth quarter, showcasing their resilience. Lauren Betts played a crucial role, contributing 8 points and logging 37 minutes on the court.
Close’s journey in basketball began as a player at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she served as team captain in 1992 and 1993. Before her time at UCLA, she was the associate head coach at Florida State for seven seasons, where she honed her skills and built a reputation for developing strong teams.
Close’s family has been a significant influence on her career. Her father, Don Close, was a former college football player and high school coach, who passed away in 2021 after battling vascular dementia. Cori often reflects on the support she receives from her mother, Patti Close, known as ‘Mother Bruin’, who has been a constant presence at UCLA games and has traveled with the team internationally.
As the season progresses, observers are eager to see how Close and her team will perform in the upcoming matches. The Bruins have shown remarkable consistency, winning 29 consecutive games since their only loss this season. Close has expressed her aspirations, stating, “I’ve considered going to the WNBA,” indicating her ambitions extend beyond collegiate coaching.
With the NCAA tournament underway, the focus will be on how UCLA navigates the challenges ahead. Players like Gabriela Jaquez have emphasized the importance of teamwork and confidence, stating, “Coming out ready to play, coming out to get every loose ball, creating catches, playing as a team — and just play like we know how to play, play confident.” Details remain unconfirmed regarding the team’s strategy for the next games, but the excitement surrounding UCLA women’s basketball continues to grow.
