The numbers
Cori Close has etched her name in the history of women’s basketball, achieving remarkable milestones as the head coach of UCLA since 2011. Under her leadership, the Bruins have amassed an impressive 350 wins, culminating in their first-ever Final Four appearance during the 2024-25 season. This season, Close’s team boasted a record of 35-1, showcasing their dominance with a staggering 29 consecutive victories following their only loss.
In a recent nail-biting match against Texas, the Bruins faced a challenging game, ultimately falling short with a score of 76-65. The team trailed by 20 points at halftime but rallied to cut the deficit to just four points in the fourth quarter, demonstrating their resilience and fighting spirit. Lauren Betts played a pivotal role, contributing 8 points and logging an impressive 37 minutes on the court.
Close’s coaching journey began as an associate head coach at Florida State for seven seasons before taking the helm at UCLA. Her dedication to the sport is deeply rooted in her family, with her father, Don Close, being a former college football player and high school coach. Sadly, Don passed away in 2021 after battling vascular dementia, a loss that profoundly affected Close and her family. “That’s a gift to me, for our team to be so kind to my mom, to give purpose for my mom,” she reflected, highlighting the strong bond between her family and the team.
Patti Close, known affectionately as “Mother Bruin,” has been a steadfast presence at UCLA women’s basketball games, traveling with the team to Europe and Africa since Cori took the job. This familial support underscores the community-focused approach that Close has fostered within the program. Her two sisters, Amity and Adell, also contribute to the close-knit atmosphere surrounding the team.
Close’s achievements have not gone unnoticed; she won all four major national Coach of the Year awards in 2025, a testament to her exceptional leadership and the hard work of her players. Gabriela Jaquez, a standout player, emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “I think that’s the big one. Coming out ready to play, coming out to get every loose ball, creating catches, playing as a team — and just play like we know how to play, play confident.” This sentiment reflects the culture of unity that Close has cultivated.
As Close continues to lead the Bruins, she has openly considered opportunities in the WNBA, signaling her ambition and passion for the sport. “I’ve considered going to the WNBA,” she shared, hinting at her desire to further her coaching career while remaining committed to her current team.
Looking ahead, the UCLA women’s basketball program is poised for continued success under Close’s guidance. Observers expect her to build on this season’s achievements, further solidifying UCLA’s reputation as a powerhouse in women’s basketball. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any immediate changes, but the community remains hopeful for what the future holds for Close and her team.
