The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team stands as one of the most successful and storied programs in women’s college basketball history. With a legacy that spans several decades, the Bruins have made a significant impact both in their home state of California and on the national stage. Known for producing talented players and consistently competing at the highest levels, UCLA has become a name synonymous with excellence in women’s college basketball.
In this article, we’ll explore the UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team, covering everything from its rich history, key players, coaching philosophies, and major achievements, to the current team’s performance and what the future holds for this prestigious program. Whether you’re a die-hard Bruins fan, a college basketball enthusiast, or someone just discovering the team, this guide provides an in-depth look at all things UCLA women’s basketball.
History of UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program was officially established in 1974 as part of the University of California, Los Angeles’ commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for women. This came a few years after the passage of Title IX in 1972, which mandated that educational institutions provide equal opportunities in sports for both men and women.
Early Years and Building the Foundation (1970s – 1980s)
In the early years, the Bruins were not yet the powerhouse they would later become. However, they quickly gained a reputation for strong, competitive play. In 1978, the Bruins began to make a more noticeable impact on the national scene when they qualified for the NCAA Tournament, which helped the program establish itself as one to watch.
The early success of the program was largely attributed to the leadership of Joni Huntley, who was hired as the head coach in 1977. Huntley helped lay the groundwork for UCLA’s future success, and under her guidance, the team’s recruitment and overall play steadily improved. By the mid-1980s, the Bruins were beginning to be recognized as one of the top teams in the country.
Golden Age of UCLA Women’s Basketball (1980s – 1990s)
The 1980s and 1990s were a golden era for the Bruins, marked by numerous conference titles, NCAA appearances, and talented rosters. UCLA made a breakthrough in 1989 when they reached the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament, a huge accomplishment that solidified their place among the elite programs in college basketball.
However, it wasn’t until 2006 when the Bruins truly returned to the pinnacle of women’s college basketball. Under head coach Ben Braun, UCLA secured a spot in the Final Four, setting the stage for the program’s second rise to prominence. Over the following decade, they would continue to build on that momentum, solidifying themselves as a national contender year after year.
The Rise of UCLA Women’s Basketball Under Coach Cori Close
One of the most significant turning points in the history of the program came with the hiring of Cori Close as the head coach in 2011. Close, who had previously been an assistant coach at Florida State University and UCLA, brought a wealth of experience and an undeniable passion for the game. Under Close’s leadership, the Bruins began to show remarkable progress.
Coaching Philosophy
Cori Close’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of developing not only skilled basketball players but also strong individuals who understand the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Her coaching style is built on a defensive-first mentality, instilling a competitive edge in her players. She’s known for being a player’s coach, having a great ability to connect with her athletes on a personal level while also fostering an environment of competition and growth.
One of the key tenets of Close’s approach is attention to detail, ensuring that every player is well-prepared both mentally and physically. Under her leadership, the Bruins have become one of the best defensive teams in the country, while also becoming increasingly effective on offense.
UCLA Women’s Basketball: Major Achievements and Records
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team has a rich history full of accomplishments, both on the court and in terms of individual accolades. Over the years, the team has won numerous Pac-12 Conference titles, been a consistent fixture in the NCAA Tournament, and produced several players who have gone on to have successful professional careers in the WNBA.
NCAA Tournament Success
UCLA has been a regular contender in the NCAA Tournament, with the team making numerous appearances over the years. Here are some key moments and achievements from the program’s NCAA Tournament history:
National Championships: The Bruins have won one NCAA National Championship in 1978, which was the first year of the women’s NCAA basketball tournament.
Final Four Appearances: UCLA has reached the Final Four multiple times, with notable performances in 1989, 1999, and 2006, as well as 2018.
Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight Appearances: UCLA has consistently made it to the later rounds of the NCAA Tournament, securing Sweet Sixteen appearances in recent years. The program has also reached the Elite Eight multiple times, showing the team’s ability to compete with the best in the country.
Conference Dominance: Pac-12 Championships
The Pac-12 Conference has always been one of the toughest women’s basketball conferences in the nation, and UCLA has had its fair share of success in this competitive league. Over the years, the Bruins have captured several Pac-12 championships, including multiple regular-season titles and conference tournament victories. UCLA’s success in the Pac-12 Tournament has further solidified their position as one of the elite programs in the country, competing year in and year out with the likes of Stanford, Oregon, and Arizona.
Notable Players in UCLA Women’s Basketball History
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program has produced many notable players who have left a lasting legacy both at the collegiate and professional levels. Some of these players include:
Nikki Blue – A standout player from the early 2000s, Nikki Blue helped lead the Bruins to several NCAA Tournament appearances and was named an All-American during her career.
Jordin Canada – One of the most successful players in UCLA history, Jordin Canada was a two-time All-American and led the Bruins to the Final Four in 2018. She was also a top pick in the WNBA Draft.
Monique Billings – A dominant force in the post, Monique Billings was a key player for UCLA in the mid-2010s. She earned multiple All-Pac-12 honors and was a standout at both ends of the floor.
Kelli Hayes – A versatile player who contributed to the team in multiple roles, Kelli Hayes was part of the strong UCLA teams that consistently made NCAA Tournament appearances.
UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball Team: The 2022-2023 Season and Beyond
As of the 2022-2023 season, UCLA remains a perennial contender in women’s college basketball, competing in the competitive Pac-12 Conference and making its presence known on the national stage. Under coach Cori Close, the team has continued to be a well-balanced and strong squad, known for both its offensive potency and defensive resilience.
Key Players for the 2022-2023 Season
Some of the top players on the current roster have the potential to elevate UCLA even further. Players like Charisma Osborne, a guard who was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection, and Emily Bessoir, a forward who provides a significant presence on both ends of the floor, are poised to lead the team in the coming seasons. Together, they represent a new generation of talent for UCLA women’s basketball, and the future is bright for this program.
The Future of UCLA Women’s Basketball
Looking ahead, UCLA is poised to continue its success with young talent coming up through the ranks, as well as the continued leadership of coach Cori Close. The Bruins will look to build on their already strong recruiting classes, which continue to attract some of the best high school players in the country.
With the increasing visibility of women’s college basketball and the growing popularity of the WNBA, UCLA’s women’s basketball team is primed to stay at the forefront of the sport. The team’s legacy of excellence, combined with the program’s current trajectory, ensures that UCLA will continue to be a force in college basketball for years to come.
UCLA Women’s Basketball in a Class of Its Own
The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball program has had a rich and storied history, filled with remarkable achievements, standout players, and continued success on the national stage. With a talented coaching staff, a strong recruitment pipeline, and a roster filled with skilled athletes, the Bruins look set to remain one of the premier teams in women’s college basketball.
As they continue to make strides in the NCAA Tournament and Pac-12 play, UCLA’s women’s basketball team is sure to remain a major contender for years to come. Whether you’re watching the Bruins in the regular season or cheering them on in the NCAA Tournament, one thing is certain this team is a force to be reckoned with. The future looks incredibly bright for UCLA women’s basketball, and fans can expect even greater things to come.
FAQs
Who is the head coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball?
The head coach of the UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball team is Cori Close. She has been with the program since 2011 and has led the team to numerous NCAA tournament appearances, including the Final Four in 2018. Close is known for her strong leadership, emphasis on player development, and commitment to building a competitive program.
What is UCLA’s ranking in the NCAA Women’s Basketball standings?
As of March 2024, UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball is ranked among the top 10 teams in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Poll. They are consistently ranked highly within the Pac-12 Conference and are considered one of the top contenders for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. Their consistent success, including regular-season victories and tournament runs, keeps them among the nation’s elite teams.
How has UCLA Women’s Basketball performed in the NCAA Tournament?
UCLA Women’s Basketball has an impressive history in the NCAA Tournament. They have made numerous appearances in the tournament, with their most notable achievements including 11 NCAA titles and consistent Final Four appearances. The team has a strong track record of advancing deep into the tournament, with their last Final Four appearance in 2018. Fans are excited to see if they can add another title to their collection in the coming years.
What is the rivalry between UCLA and Stanford in women’s basketball?
The rivalry between UCLA Bruins and Stanford Cardinal in women’s basketball is one of the most storied in the Pac-12 Conference. Both teams have been dominant forces in women’s college basketball, and their matchups are often pivotal in deciding the conference title. These games are highly anticipated, with both teams frequently meeting in the Pac-12 Tournament and having faced off multiple times in the NCAA Tournament.
Where can I watch UCLA Women’s Basketball games?
You can watch UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball games on a variety of platforms. Most Pac-12 games are broadcast on Pac-12 Network, ESPN, and ESPN2, depending on the matchup and scheduling. Additionally, UCLA’s official website and the Pac-12 Network offer streaming options for fans who want to watch the games live. Be sure to check the schedule for specific broadcast details.
In Summary
The UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball team continues to be one of the premier programs in college basketball. With a rich history, a talented roster, and an exceptional coach in Cori Close, the team remains a force in the Pac-12 Conference and on the national stage. As the team continues to strive for another NCAA Championship, fans can expect exciting games, fierce competition, and a thrilling future for UCLA Women’s Basketball. Whether you’re watching at Pauley Pavilion or following along on TV, the UCLA Bruins are always a team to watch in women’s college basketball.
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