UCLA’s basketball program, once a perennial contender in the Pac‑12, is poised for a resurgence as the 2026‑27 campaign approaches. The arrival of five‑star Serbian forward Nikola Kusturica has injected fresh optimism into a squad that last tasted deep tournament runs a few years ago.
A Revamped Frontcourt
The Bruins’ interior will be anchored by a blend of experience and fresh talent. Alongside returning big men Eric Dailey and Xavier Booker, the team will welcome Kusturica, a 6‑9 forward praised for his shot‑blocking and floor‑spacing ability. Adding Auburn transfer Filip Jovic, who shot 64 percent from the field last season, further bolsters depth and gives Cronin versatile options off the bench.
Backcourt Continuity
Perry, Petty and Booker give UCLA a stable backcourt that has already shown the ability to shoulder heavy minutes. Perry led the team in scoring last year with 12.6 points per game and has proven his durability, logging over 30 minutes per game in the final stretch of the previous season. Petty, still with three years of eligibility remaining, brings a spark as a dynamic guard, while Booker’s defensive presence, highlighted by his 1.2 blocks per game, adds a crucial layer of protection.
Cronin’s Blueprint
Head coach Mick Cronin, now in his second full cycle, emphasizes a defensive identity paired with disciplined spacing. His strategy hinges on forcing opponents into low‑percentage shots while allowing the offense to flow through the high‑post and perimeter. The early test will come in the season‑opening showdown against Arizona in Las Vegas, a neutral‑site game that will serve as a barometer for the team’s chemistry.
Rankings and Outlook
Analysts are already placing UCLA in the mid‑teens of national preseason polls. Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports projects the Bruins at No. 19, while Bart Torvik’s advanced metrics rank them 21st. Both outlets agree that a top‑15 to top‑20 finish is within reach if the team can translate its projected depth into on‑court cohesion.