The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program stands as a beacon of excellence in collegiate athletics, boasting a rich history, a commitment to developing top-tier talent, and a passionate fan base. From their early triumphs in the AIAW to their recent deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, the Bruins have consistently showcased a blend of skill, teamwork, and competitive fire. This comprehensive article explores the storied past, current landscape, and future aspirations of this formidable program, offering insights for both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts.
The Enduring Legacy: A Historical Overview
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team, established in 1974, quickly made its mark on the collegiate basketball scene. Before the NCAA began sponsoring women’s basketball championships, the Bruins were a dominant force in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW).
Early Triumphs and National Recognition (AIAW Era)
The program’s foundational years under coaches like Kenny Washington and Ellen Mosher saw immediate success. However, it was under the legendary Billie Moore, who took the helm in 1977, that UCLA truly soared. In 1978, the Bruins achieved a monumental feat, capturing the AIAW National Championship.
This historic victory remains a cornerstone of the program’s legacy, with a commemorative banner proudly displayed in Pauley Pavilion. The team continued its strong performance in the AIAW, reaching the national tournament’s Final Four again in 1979.
Transition to NCAA and Sustained Competitiveness
With the NCAA taking over women’s basketball championships in the 1981-82 season, UCLA transitioned seamlessly into the new era. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, under coaches like Billie Moore and later Kathy Olivier, the Bruins consistently competed in the Pac-10/Pac-12 Conference (formerly Pac-10) and made regular appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
While the program sought another national championship, it maintained a strong presence, developing notable players and fostering a reputation for tough, disciplined basketball.
The Cori Close Era: A Resurgence of Prominence
The arrival of Head Coach Cori Close in 2011 marked a new chapter of resurgence for UCLA women’s basketball. Coach Close has meticulously built a program known for its player development, strategic prowess, and unwavering commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Her tenure has seen the Bruins consistently rank among the nation’s elite, making multiple Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight appearances, and most recently, a historic run to the Final Four in the 2024-25 season.
Understanding the Game: Key Aspects of UCLA Women’s Basketball
To truly appreciate the UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program, it’s essential to understand the various facets that contribute to its success.
Coaching Philosophy and Strategy
Coach Cori Close’s coaching philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to player development, focusing on not just basketball skills but also leadership, character, and academic achievement. On the court, her teams are known for their defensive intensity, disciplined offense, and adaptability. They often employ a balanced scoring attack, utilizing both interior presence and perimeter shooting.
Key elements of the coaching strategy often include:
Aggressive Defense: Prioritizing stifling opponent offenses through strong on-ball defense, help-side rotations, and opportunistic trapping.
Team-Oriented Offense: Emphasizing ball movement, player cuts, and creating high-percentage scoring opportunities for all players, rather than relying on a single star.
Rebounding Dominance: A consistent focus on winning the battle on the boards, both offensively and defensively, to create second-chance points and limit opponent possessions.
Smart Shot Selection: Encouraging players to take efficient shots and avoid forced attempts, contributing to higher field goal percentages.
Player Development and Recruitment
UCLA consistently attracts highly-touted recruits from across the nation and internationally. The program’s success in developing these young talents into collegiate stars and future professional players is a testament to its robust player development program.
Player development at UCLA often involves:
Individualized Training: Tailored workout plans and skill development sessions addressing each player’s strengths and weaknesses.
Strength and Conditioning: A comprehensive program designed to enhance athleticism, prevent injuries, and build stamina for the demanding collegiate season. This typically involves year-round training, including weightlifting, plyometrics, agility drills, and cardiovascular conditioning, overseen by dedicated athletic performance staff like Director Ash Samaniego.
Film Study and Strategic Analysis: Regular sessions to review game film, analyze opponent tendencies, and refine individual and team strategies.
Mental Performance Coaching: Emphasizing mental toughness, resilience, and focus to help players perform under pressure.
Recruiting at UCLA is a continuous process that involves:
Talent Identification: Scouting high school and AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) basketball games, evaluating potential recruits based on skill, athleticism, and character.
Relationship Building: Coaches and staff establish strong relationships with recruits and their families, showcasing the program’s values and opportunities.
Academic Fit: Ensuring that potential student-athletes meet UCLA’s rigorous academic standards and are committed to academic success.
Campus Visits: Hosting official and unofficial visits for recruits to experience the campus, meet current players, and learn more about the program.
Academic Support
UCLA emphasizes academic excellence alongside athletic achievement. Student-athletes have access to a wide range of academic support services, including tutoring, academic advising, and learning resources, to ensure their success in the classroom. This commitment to holistic development aligns with the NCAA’s focus on student-athlete welfare.
Trends and Triumphs: Recent Seasons (As of 2025)
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program has experienced a period of remarkable growth and success in recent years under Coach Cori Close.
The 2024-25 Season: A Historic Milestone
The 2024-25 season was truly a landmark year for UCLA women’s basketball. The Bruins achieved a historic milestone by reaching the NCAA Final Four for the first time in program history. They finished the regular season with an impressive 27-2 record, 16-2 in Big Ten play, and secured a No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.
They also made history by winning their first-ever Big Ten Conference Tournament title, defeating rival USC in a thrilling final. Key players like Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, and Londynn Jones were instrumental in this success. This season showcased the program’s ability to consistently perform at an elite level and its successful transition to the highly competitive Big Ten Conference.
Consistent NCAA Tournament Appearances
Prior to their 2025 Final Four run, the Bruins have consistently been a force in the NCAA Tournament. In the 2023-24 season, they reached the Regional Semifinal before falling to LSU.
Over the past decade, UCLA has made numerous Sweet Sixteen appearances (Regional Semifinals) and several Elite Eight appearances (Regional Finals), demonstrating their consistent competitiveness on the national stage.
Notable Player Development
The success of the program is intrinsically linked to the development of its players. Under Coach Close, many Bruins have blossomed into collegiate stars and WNBA draft picks. The current roster (as of 2024-25) features standout talents like Lauren Betts (Center, 6-7), Kiki Rice (Guard, 5-11), and Gabriela Jaquez (Forward, 5-11), who have become key contributors. Betts, in particular, had a sensational 2024-25 season, earning numerous accolades.
Real-Life Examples of Excellence
The history of UCLA Bruins women’s basketball is replete with examples of individual and team excellence.
Ann Meyers Drysdale: A Trailblazer
One cannot discuss UCLA women’s basketball without acknowledging Ann Meyers Drysdale. A true pioneer of women’s sports, Meyers was a four-time All-American at UCLA in the late 1970s. She was the first woman to receive a full athletic scholarship to any university, and her impact transcended the game.
She led UCLA to the 1978 AIAW National Championship and later became the first woman to sign a professional contract with an NBA team (Indiana Pacers, though she didn’t play in a regular season game). Her legacy continues to inspire generations of female athletes.
Billie Moore: A Championship Coach
Billie Moore’s coaching tenure at UCLA was marked by the program’s only national championship in 1978. Her leadership and strategic acumen laid the groundwork for future success and established UCLA as a premier destination for women’s basketball talent. She was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to her profound impact on the sport.
Recent Standouts: Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice
In recent years, players like Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice have continued the tradition of excellence. Betts, a dominant post presence, has consistently been among the nation’s leaders in scoring and rebounding.
Her ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor has been a major factor in UCLA’s recent success. Kiki Rice, a dynamic guard, provides exceptional playmaking, scoring, and leadership. Their combined talent exemplifies the high caliber of athletes attracted to and developed by the UCLA program.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Players and Fans
For Aspiring Women’s Basketball Players
If you dream of playing at a high-level program like UCLA, here are some practical tips:
Focus on Fundamentals: Master the basic skills of basketball – dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense. Consistency in these areas is paramount.
Develop a Strong Work Ethic: Collegiate basketball demands immense dedication. Be prepared to train rigorously, both on and off the court.
Excel Academically: UCLA is a top-tier academic institution. Strong grades and test scores are crucial for admission and eligibility.
Play at a High Level: Compete in competitive AAU leagues and showcase events to gain exposure to college coaches.
Create a Highlight Reel: A well-edited video showcasing your skills and game performance can be a valuable tool for college recruitment.
Communicate with Coaches: Reach out to coaches at programs you’re interested in, expressing your interest and sharing your academic and athletic profiles. Research the coaching staff, including Associate Head Coach Shannon LeBeauf and Assistant Coaches Tasha Brown, Tony Newnan, Soh Matsuura, and James Clark.
Understand the Recruiting Process: Familiarize yourself with NCAA recruiting rules and timelines. Reputable sources like 247Sports and ESPN provide insights into recruitment rankings and commitments. For example, Sienna Betts (Class of 2025) is a notable commit for UCLA.
The Broader Impact: UCLA Women’s Basketball and Women’s Sports
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program plays a significant role in elevating the profile of women’s sports.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The success and visibility of the Bruins inspire young girls and aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams in sports. Seeing female athletes compete at the highest level, achieve academic success, and engage in community service provides powerful role models.
Driving Equality and Opportunity
By consistently investing in its women’s basketball program, UCLA contributes to the broader movement for gender equality in sports. The resources, coaching, and exposure provided to these athletes help to bridge historical gaps in opportunities for female athletes.
Media Attention and Fan Engagement
The increasing success of UCLA women’s basketball, particularly their deep NCAA Tournament runs and recent Big Ten Championship, has garnered significant media attention.
This heightened visibility not only benefits the program but also contributes to the growing interest and investment in women’s basketball nationwide. The 2024-25 season’s Final Four appearance was extensively covered, showcasing the growing fan engagement in women’s college basketball.
FAQ
What is the biggest achievement in UCLA Bruins women’s basketball history?
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team won the AIAW National Championship in 1978. This was their first national championship in program history. They also recently made their first-ever NCAA Final Four appearance in the 2024-25 season and won their first Big Ten Conference Tournament title in 2025.
Who is the current head coach of UCLA women’s basketball?
The current head coach of the UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team is Cori Close. She has been the head coach since 2011 and has led the program to consistent national prominence.
How many NCAA Tournament appearances has UCLA women’s basketball made?
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team has a long history of NCAA Tournament appearances, with numerous trips to the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight rounds, and their first Final Four appearance in 2025. You can find detailed year-by-year results and tournament performances on sports reference sites like Sports-Reference.com.
Which notable players have played for UCLA women’s basketball?
Many talented players have donned the UCLA Bruins uniform. Legendary figures include Ann Meyers Drysdale, a trailblazer in women’s sports. More recently, players like Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, and Charisma Osborne have significantly impacted the program’s success.
What conference does UCLA women’s basketball play in?
As of the 2024-25 season, the UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team competes in the Big Ten Conference. They previously competed in the Pac-12 Conference for many years before the conference realignment.
Final Thoughts
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program embodies the spirit of excellence, determination, and community impact. From the historic AIAW championship to their groundbreaking achievements in the Big Ten and NCAA Tournament, the Bruins have consistently showcased the power of teamwork and individual brilliance.
Under the astute leadership of Coach Cori Close, the program continues to thrive, developing not just exceptional athletes but also well-rounded individuals who excel academically and contribute positively to society.
As the landscape of women’s basketball continues to evolve, the UCLA Bruins remain a pivotal force, inspiring countless fans and future generations of athletes to reach for greatness on and off the court. Their journey is a testament to the enduring power of sport and the unwavering pursuit of champions.
To read more, Click here
