UCLA's women's basketball program has announced the hiring of Noelle Quinn as an assistant coach, a move that follows the recent departures of two longtime assistants. The announcement underscores the Bruins' intent to preserve the momentum of a recent championship run while infusing fresh strategic insight into the roster.
Quinn, a UCLA alum who starred for the Bruins from 2003 to 2007, earned All-Pac 10 honors and amassed eight Pac-10 Player of the Week recognitions during her collegiate career. Her contributions were later acknowledged with induction into the UCLA Hall of Fame in 2020, cementing her legacy as one of the program's standout players.
Championship Pedigree and Coaching Journey
Beyond her playing days, Quinn has built a robust coaching résumé that includes a WNBA championship as a player with the Seattle Storm in 2018 and a second title as an assistant coach in 2020. From 2021 through 2025 she served as head coach of the Storm, guiding the team to another championship and honing her ability to blend defensive schemes with player development.
Head coach Cori Close praised Quinn's character and basketball acumen, emphasizing that the new assistant will have a positive impact on both the players' growth and the team's on‑court performance. Close noted that Quinn's observational work during a summer practice and a match against the Canadian national team highlighted her capacity to adapt and integrate new ideas.
Quinn's approach centers on active listening and collaboration. She plans to study UCLA's existing system, refine her own strategies, and ensure that any adjustments complement the Bruins' established methods. This measured integration aims to enhance skill development and reinforce a defensive identity that has become a hallmark of the program.
Looking Ahead
The Bruins enter the upcoming season as defending NCAA champions, and the addition of Quinn is expected to bolster their depth and tactical flexibility. Close expressed confidence that Quinn's blend of championship experience and player‑focused coaching will translate into tangible improvements on the hardwood.