UCLA Bruins Women's Basketball Secures National Championship and Welcomes New Talent
Apr 5, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Cori Close cuts down the net after defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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UCLA women's basketball achieved its first national championship by defeating South Carolina 79-51. Following the season, head coach Cori Close focused on rebuilding the team, bringing in several transfers and securing a commitment from Slovenian guard Lina Jerkovic for the 2026 class.
- 01UCLA won its first national championship with a decisive 79-51 victory over South Carolina.
- 02Head coach Cori Close faces challenges as six top scorers move to the WNBA, prompting a rebuild via the transfer portal.
- 03Lina Jerkovic, a 5'9 guard from Slovenia, is the only commitment for the 2026 class after Joyce Isi Etute decommitted.
- 04Jerkovic averaged 10.4 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game at the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket.
- 05Close aims to develop Jerkovic as a long-term project, focusing on her potential despite limited immediate playing time.
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The UCLA Bruins women's basketball team concluded a historic season by winning its first national championship, decisively defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks 79-51. Following this success, head coach Cori Close faces the challenge of rebuilding the roster as six key players transition to the WNBA. To address this, Close has recruited several transfers, including KK Bransford, Addy Brown, Donovyn Hunter, Elina Aarnisalo, and Bonnie Deas. Notably, the Bruins secured a commitment from Lina Jerkovic, a 5'9 guard from Slovenia, who is the only addition to the 2026 class after Joyce Isi Etute decommitted. Jerkovic showcased her skills at the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket, averaging 10.4 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. Despite her shooting struggles at the international level, her ability to run an offense and defend multiple positions makes her a valuable long-term prospect. Close is expected to develop Jerkovic over time, allowing her to acclimate to the college game amidst a competitive backcourt.
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The success of UCLA's women's basketball team enhances the program's reputation and may attract more talent in the future.
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