UCLA’s women’s basketball program capped last season with a national championship, a triumph that set the stage for a dramatic reshuffle of its roster.
All six of last year’s top scorers have moved on to professional contracts in the WNBA, leaving a significant void in scoring and experience.
In response, the Bruins have assembled a new core that includes sophomore forward Sienna Betts and five transfers who arrived specifically to preserve the program’s competitive edge.
Head coach Cori Close addressed the media during the team’s first open practice on June 16, emphasizing that the transition is less about replacing talent and more about building chemistry and mastering new roles.
Close highlighted the importance of teamwork, noting that every player will be expected to contribute in ways that differ from their previous responsibilities.
Sienna Betts, who earned All‑Big Ten freshman honors last year and averaged six points on 53 % shooting, expressed excitement about stepping into a larger role and helping shape the team’s identity.
The coaching staff has brought in five transfers, a move designed to preserve the program’s depth and maintain its national relevance.
The optimism within the program is palpable as the squad prepares for the upcoming season.
A New Chapter Begins
The Bruins open their season in Phoenix, where the first home‑court test will reveal how the revised roster handles the pressures of championship expectations.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team navigates this period of flux, hoping the blend of experience and fresh talent can sustain the momentum generated by last year’s title.