A New Chapter for UCLA Women's Basketball
UCLA’s women’s basketball program enters the 2026‑27 season as the defending champion, but the roster will look markedly different from the squad that captured the previous title.
Coach Cori Close has instituted two guiding principles for her players: be a lifestyle learner and be an intentional giver. She says the team’s identity will be shaped by how they conduct themselves away from the scoreboard.
The offseason saw several key contributors leave for the professional ranks, including Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez, all of whom were selected in the recent WNBA draft.
To fill the void, UCLA added five transfers and two freshman guards. Among the newcomers is Elina Aarnisalo, who averaged 10.2 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists at North Carolina last season, bringing a blend of skill and experience.
Coach Close frequently reminds the squad that 98% of basketball is played without the ball, emphasizing off‑ball movement, communication and collective responsibility.
Sienna Betts, sister of departed star Lauren Betts, has stepped into a leadership role, helping to bridge the gap between veterans and the influx of new talent.
The team is focused on integrating its new pieces while re‑establishing the culture that propelled them to the top, aiming to translate their high‑efficiency offense — ranked second nationally in field‑goal percentage at 50.9% and 21.9 assists per game — into another championship‑contending campaign.
Despite the turnover, UCLA did not have any players enter the transfer portal after the last season, indicating a level of stability and commitment to the program’s direction.