The numbers
Cori Close has made a significant impact on UCLA’s women’s basketball program, achieving 350 wins as head coach since taking the helm in 2011. Her leadership culminated in a historic season, where her team boasted a remarkable record of 35-1 leading into the Final Four.
Close’s journey to this pinnacle began with her tenure as an associate head coach at Florida State for seven seasons, where she honed her skills before taking charge at UCLA. A former player herself, Close captained the University of California, Santa Barbara team in 1992 and 1993, laying the foundation for her future coaching career.
In the 2024-25 season, Close led UCLA to its first-ever Final Four appearance, a milestone that was celebrated across the college basketball landscape. Her remarkable coaching prowess earned her all four major national Coach of the Year awards in 2025, solidifying her status as one of the premier coaches in women’s basketball.
However, the recent matchup against Texas proved to be a challenging moment for Close and her team. In a hard-fought game, UCLA fell short with a final score of 76-65, despite cutting a 20-point halftime deficit down to just four points in the fourth quarter. Lauren Betts, a key player, contributed 8 points and played a significant 37 minutes, showcasing her determination and skill on the court.
Close’s personal connection to the game is profound, influenced by her father, Don Close, a former college football player and high school coach who passed away in 2021. His legacy continues to inspire her, as she often reflects on the values he instilled in her. “That’s a gift to me, for our team to be so kind to my mom, to give purpose for my mom,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of family and support in her coaching journey.
As UCLA’s women’s basketball program continues to evolve, observers are keenly watching how Close will navigate the challenges ahead. With a strong roster that includes talented players like Gabriela Jaquez, who emphasized the need for the team to play confidently and cohesively, the future looks promising.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the next steps for Close and her team as they regroup after the loss to Texas. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this resilient coach will adapt and lead her team in the coming seasons, as she has consistently built one of the most competitive programs in the nation over the past decade.
