The UCLA women's basketball team is embarking on its title defense with a familiar philosophy, seeking to uphold the championship standards that led to their first NCAA title. Despite losing their top six players to the WNBA, coach Cori Close has rebuilt the roster through a combination of five transfers and two freshmen, all drawn to the program's established pursuit of excellence.
This approach has resonated with players like junior guard Donovyn Hunter, who was inspired by the Bruins' connected and high-standard play during their championship victory. "I think I was wanting to chase that," Hunter said, referring to a team environment that pushes players to uphold standards regardless of the score. Similarly, guard Elina Aarnisalo, who transferred back to UCLA after a season at North Carolina, cited Close's ability to develop players as a primary reason for her return.
Close describes the team's approach as a "proven road map" that is easy for players to buy into. With the core players from the championship game now in the WNBA, Close likens the current team to writing its own story. Sophomore forward Sienna Betts is poised for a more prominent role, stepping out from her older sister Lauren's shadow. "I'm going to have way more opportunities to be able to have the ball more in my hands and have the opportunity to go and face up and go to the basket," Sienna Betts said.
The Bruins will also see the return of senior forward Timea Gardiner from a knee injury. However, they sustained another setback when promising forward Lena Bilic suffered a season-ending knee injury in early October. "The initial blow was hard," Close stated, "but our team has recommitted to how we're going to move forward together."
Leadership is expected from Gardiner and guard KK Bransford, a transfer from Notre Dame, who Close identifies as key to upholding standards and communication. Bransford's assertiveness and basketball IQ may earn her a starting spot. The team's strengths are noted to be shooting and spacing, leading to improved paint touches and driving lanes. Aarnisalo is expected to be the primary distributor for the No. 11 Bruins, who open their season against Lehigh.
The team has established three new core values for the season: protecting their inner circle, open accountability, and relentless grit. Close has expressed enjoyment in coaching this group, noting their desire to be held to high standards. Despite not being heavily favored in preseason polls, the Bruins are focused on their process. "I do think we're a little bit overlooked," Close said, "but the only thing that does the talking is just go win and the rest will take care of itself."
Key players to watch include Aarnisalo, expected to be a primary distributor, and Sienna Betts, who could emerge as a dominant post player. The team faces a challenging schedule, including matchups against Tennessee, South Carolina, Texas, and USC. Coach Close's potential interest in the WNBA remains a topic of speculation, though her new contract includes a buyout reduction for such a move.