UCLA’s women’s basketball program celebrated its first national championship last week, a milestone that has instantly raised expectations for the coming season.
A New Chapter for UCLA Women's Basketball
The triumph, however, coincides with a mass exodus of talent, as the top six scorers from the championship roster have each signed professional contracts and moved on to the WNBA. At the same time, Joyce Isi Etute, a highly rated recruit, reopened her recruitment and committed to the Texas Longhorns, further reshaping the Bruins’ lineup.
Head coach Cori Close, who orchestrated the title run, now faces the task of rebuilding the squad. She has already secured several transfers and has placed her long‑term vision on Lina Jerkovic, the lone verbal commitment for the 2026 class.
Jerkovic comes to Westwood with an international résumé that includes a strong showing at the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, where she averaged 10.4 points, 5.0 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game. Her shooting percentages — 30 % from the field, 22 % from three‑point range, and 70 % from the free‑throw line — highlight a player still polishing her efficiency.
Close has been clear that Jerkovic will not be expected to deliver instant star power. Instead, the coaching staff views her as a developmental piece, a player whose foundational skills can grow into a larger role over multiple seasons.
The rebuild will blend the experience of returning contributors with the upside of fresh talent, aiming to keep UCLA competitive while laying the groundwork for sustained success.