UCLA’s basketball program is shaping up for the 2026‑27 season with a starting lineup that blends proven returnees and high‑profile transfers, a mix that could push the Bruins toward a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
At the helm of the backcourt, Trent Perry is slated to start at point guard. Though he has not confined himself to that role since high school, his playmaking instincts and recent development have convinced the coaching staff that he can fill the void left by Donovan Dent’s exit.
Joining Perry, Texas Tech transfer Jaylen Petty brings a versatile scoring arsenal. Capable of creating shots from the perimeter, mid‑range and the paint, Petty is expected to be one of the primary offensive engines for the Bruins.
Nikola Kusturica’s blend of scoring punch and defensive intensity is being highlighted as a potential catalyst for a Final Four push. His ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions adds a layer of flexibility that could prove decisive in tight games.
Frontcourt depth
Eric Dailey’s return bolsters the frontcourt. Last season he averaged double‑digit points and six rebounds per game, establishing himself as a reliable power forward who can also defend the rim.
Xavier Booker, who completed his first year in Westwood, is expected to build on that experience, providing additional size and energy off the bench.
The addition of Filip Jovic as a backup center further enriches the interior options, giving the staff a skilled big man who can contribute both inside and from the high post.
Overall, the Bruins’ blend of continuity and fresh talent creates a sense of optimism. With a core that returns intact and several impact transfers, the team appears poised to contend for conference supremacy and beyond.