The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team is currently enjoying a remarkable season, standing at No. 2 in the nation and boasting a 21-game winning streak. They recently clinched the Big Ten regular-season championship. As they prepare for their regular-season finale against USC on March 3, 2024, and the upcoming Big Ten Conference Tournament, the focus now shifts to the NCAA Tournament, where they aim for a deeper run than last year’s Final Four appearance.
Head coach Cori Close emphasizes the importance of maintaining a championship mindset. In an interview earlier this week, she reflected on the balance between celebrating the team’s achievements and staying focused on future goals. “We are so focused on what championship habits look like, and what the processes look like, that there’s this unrelenting commitment to getting better every day,” Close said. This approach highlights her commitment to both personal and team growth.
Last year’s experience serves as a crucial lesson for the Bruins. In 2023, the team reached the Final Four but faced a tough defeat against eventual champions UConn. Close noted that the atmosphere during that tournament was overwhelming, contributing to their performance. “It was just so much heaviness,” she remarked, acknowledging that the team is now better equipped to handle the pressure of high-stakes games.
This season, the Bruins are not only aiming for success on the court but also showcasing their journey through a documentary titled “You See L.A.” The series, produced by Jeff Luini and Kelsey Trainor, follows UCLA throughout the previous season and is set to air on Fox Sports 1 immediately after the UCLA-USC game. Close expressed her trust in the production team to tell the team’s story authentically, even if it includes uncomfortable moments.
The challenges of balancing academics and athletics persist, especially as UCLA operates on a quarter system, causing final exams to coincide with the NCAA Tournament. Close’s focus on the players’ well-being is complemented by her awareness of the evolving landscape of college athletics. With the implications of the House v. NCAA lawsuit still unfolding, roster management has become more complex, demanding a significant portion of her attention.
Despite these challenges, Close believes that fostering joy within the team is essential to their success. “If I had a regret of last year it was… we didn’t celebrate enough,” she admitted. This season, she encourages her players to embrace the journey while working hard. The Bruins’ roster is not only talented but also tight-knit. Close shared a heartwarming moment when players participated in a performance with the men’s basketball dance team, fostering camaraderie and team spirit.
As Close enters her 15th season at UCLA, she reflects on her journey from a point guard at UC Santa Barbara to the winningest women’s basketball coach in Bruins history, with a record of 348-149. She acknowledges the influence of her former coach, Mark French, who recognized her potential early in her career. Close’s experience as a graduate assistant under the legendary John Wooden further shaped her coaching philosophy.
Looking to the future, Close is committed to nurturing the next generation of coaches. She sees potential in her player, Timea Gardner, who has expressed interest in pursuing coaching. “She’s been thinking about it,” Close noted, highlighting the importance of mentorship in the sport.
Close’s current team exemplifies selflessness and unity, with players like Angela Dugalić willing to accept roles that contribute to the team’s success. “They enjoy each other’s company. They’re really committed,” Close said, indicating the positive environment within the team.
With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Bruins are determined to build on their successes while maintaining a joyful and focused approach. The blend of talent, teamwork, and a positive mindset could be the key to achieving their aspirations this season.
