The UCLA Bruins, fresh off a 37‑1 season that culminated in the 2026 NCAA championship, are gearing up for a high‑profile exhibition against Canada’s Senior Women’s National Team in Victoria, British Columbia. The matchup promises a clash of styles, with the Bruins’ disciplined, fundamentals‑first approach set to test the Canadians’ depth and experience.
Coach Cori Close, who signed a four‑year extension that guarantees her roughly $2 million annually, has made it clear that the championship is less about the final score than the process that leads to it. “Ninety‑eight percent of the game is played without the ball,” she says, emphasizing screening, rebounding and defensive rotations as the pillars of her system.
Among the returning roster, Sienna Betts stands out as the leading scorer from last season and is poised to assume an even larger offensive role. Elina Aarnisalo, who dramatically improved her shooting and three‑point percentages, will also be a key weapon. Adding to the mix are four transfers — Donovyn Hunter, KK Bransford, Addy Brown and Bonnie Deas — who bring fresh energy and versatility to the lineup.
The coaching staff will see a familiar face back in Shannon LeBeauf, who returns as associate head coach after a year at Rutgers, while mental performance coach Tasha Brown has departed for the University of Washington. The blend of experience and new perspectives is intended to sustain the team’s competitive edge.
The Road Ahead
The exhibition in Victoria will serve as a litmus test before the Bruins open their regular season, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric. With the championship pedigree, a fortified roster and a clear philosophical foundation, UCLA aims to carry its momentum into the new campaign.
As the team finalizes preparations, the focus remains on execution of the fundamentals that Close has championed. The Bruins hope that the lessons learned on the court in Canada will translate into another dominant season, reinforcing their status as a perennial powerhouse in women’s college basketball.