A New Starting Five
UCLA’s women’s basketball program entered the offseason with a rare combination of triumph and transition. The Bruins finished the previous campaign with a 37‑1 record and captured the national championship, but the departure of six senior contributors to the professional league left a void that the coaching staff has begun to fill.
The roster reshuffle brings a blend of experienced transfers and emerging talent, setting the stage for a completely new starting five. Each position now carries a different profile, from a point guard who brings a steady hand to a center who anchors the paint.
Who Will Fill the Roles
Elina Aarnisalo, who arrived from North Carolina, is slated to run the point and is expected to provide shooting precision and poise under pressure. At shooting guard, Donovyn Hunter, a senior transfer from TCU, adds scoring punch and defensive versatility. Addy Brown, a senior from Iowa State, will stretch the floor as the small forward, while freshman Sienna Betts, who impressed during her rookie season, is projected to start at power forward and become a focal point of the offense. Finally, Amanda Muse, a returning veteran, will take the center spot, bringing rebounding toughness and interior defense.
The infusion of talent from across the country reflects the growing influence of the transfer portal, a phenomenon that has reshaped college basketball strategies. Coaches at UCLA see the new mix as an opportunity to maintain the program’s high standards while injecting fresh energy.
Looking Ahead
With the new lineup poised to debut in the upcoming season, the Bruins aim to translate their championship pedigree into another deep run. The blend of shooting, size, and experience suggests that UCLA remains a formidable contender in the national landscape.