UCLA Women's Basketball Secures Slovenian Guard Lina Jerkovic Ahead of 2026‑27 Season
UCLA women's basketball has announced the signing of Slovenian guard Lina Jerkovic for the 2026‑27 season. At 19 years old, she will arrive on campus just weeks after her birthday on June 22, entering as a freshman. Jerkovic brings a proven track record at the U‑18 level, where she averaged 10.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, and she measures 5'9", a size that coaches say is ideal for a guard at the collegiate level.
The Bruins have approached the offseason with a clear intent to reload rather than rebuild. Coach emphasized that the team is aiming to sustain the momentum that carried them to two straight Final Fours and a national title in the past two seasons. Adding proven college talent such as Addy Brown, Donovan Hunter and Elina Aarnisalo is part of that strategy.
Roster Dynamics and Upcoming Challenges
The incoming class also welcomes Spanish guard Somto Okafor, while transfers Bonnie Deas, Elina Aarnisalo, KK Bransford, Donovan Hunter and Addy Brown bring proven collegiate experience. Returning players such as Lina Bilic, Sienna Betts, Amanda Muse, Timea Gardiner and Christina Karamouzi round out a 12‑player roster that reflects a deliberate mix of youth and experience.
Lina Jerkovic also shares a youth connection with her sister Hana Jerkovic, a 5'9" point guard who remains a potential future target for UCLA. Hana, two years younger, is currently competing at the U‑16 level and could move up to the U‑18 team next season, a development that adds an intriguing subplot to the program's recruiting narrative.
With the new roster now set, the Bruins are focused on maintaining their recent dominance while integrating fresh talent. The blend of experienced returnees, impactful transfers and promising newcomers like Lina Jerkovic and Somto Okafor creates a competitive environment that could keep UCLA at the forefront of women's college basketball.