Noelle Quinn Joins UCLA Women's Basketball Coaching Staff
The Bruins have announced the addition of Noelle Quinn, a 41‑year‑old former WNBA point guard and coach, to their women's basketball coaching staff. Quinn arrives after a distinguished playing career that included a key role in the Seattle Storm’s 2018 championship and a stint as head coach that produced a Commissioner’s Cup title in 2020. Her experience also spans the high school ranks, where she led Bishop Montgomery to prominence, and the emerging 3×3 circuit with Breeze FC.
Quinn’s hiring comes on the heels of UCLA’s first NCAA championship in 2023, a victory orchestrated by head coach Cori Close that culminated in a 79‑51 triumph over South Carolina. Close, who guided the Bruins to that historic title, will now work alongside Quinn, whose career totals exceed 1,700 points, 700 rebounds and 400 assists, making her the first Bruin to reach those milestones.
The roster that returns includes sophomore standouts Sienna Betts, Lena Bilic and Christina Karamouzi, while the program has bolstered its backcourt with three transfer guards — KK Bransford from Notre Dame, Addy Brown from Iowa State and Bonnie Deas from Arkansas. International freshmen Somto Okafor from Spain and Lina Jerkovic from Serbia have also signed on, adding global depth to the squad.
Championship Momentum
The 2023 championship marked a watershed moment for UCLA, ending a long title drought and setting a benchmark for future campaigns. The Bruins’ 79‑51 victory over South Carolina not only showcased their offensive firepower but also highlighted the program’s rapid ascent under Close’s leadership.
That triumph has generated heightened expectations, with fans and analysts alike anticipating how the new coaching duo will translate championship experience into sustained success on the court.
New Faces and Fresh Talent
Adding Bransford, Brown and Deas via the transfer portal injects proven collegiate experience, while Okafor and Jerkovic bring overseas perspectives that could reshape the team’s tactical approach. Their arrival coincides with Aarnisalo’s return, creating a layered roster that balances size, skill and versatility.
As the season approaches, the synergy between Quinn’s championship pedigree and Close’s strategic vision promises to keep UCLA at the forefront of collegiate women’s basketball, aiming to defend the title they captured just months ago.