Cori Close has made history as the head coach of the UCLA Bruins, leading the team to a decisive 79-51 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks in the NCAA women’s basketball national championship held on April 5, 2026. This triumph marks UCLA’s first national championship in the NCAA era, a significant achievement for Close, who has been at the helm for 15 years.
The Bruins showcased an impressive defensive performance, allowing only 95 points combined in their final two games of the season, the second-fewest ever recorded by a national championship team in the Final Four. Notably, UCLA became the first team to hold its opponent under 30.0% shooting from the field and less than 15% from 3-point range in a national title game.
Close emphasized the importance of recruiting “uncommon, courageous women” for her team, a philosophy that has clearly paid off. Lauren Betts, who played a pivotal role in the championship game, was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Women’s Tournament.
In the championship game, Gianna Kneepkens contributed significantly with 15 points, helping to secure the victory. Close reflected on the journey, stating, “It’s not about me. It’s about watching these incredible young women be dream chasers.” Her leadership style has evolved over the years, particularly after experiencing a previous loss in the Final Four.
Dawn Staley, head coach of South Carolina, praised Close for her hard work and contributions to women’s basketball, highlighting the significance of both coaches representing women at the highest levels of the sport. Close expressed that the championship win was meaningful because of the people she shared it with, stating, “It’s just so rare in life that you can start a journey with a group of people and really envision something… and that it actually happens.”
As the Bruins celebrate this historic victory, observers are eager to see how Close will continue to shape her program and the future of women’s basketball at UCLA. The journey of these athletes and their coach is far from over, and the impact of this championship will resonate for years to come.