The UCLA Bruins, under the leadership of Cori Close, triumphed in the NCAA women’s basketball national championship, defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks with a commanding score of 79-51. This victory not only secures UCLA’s first national championship in the NCAA era but also highlights Close’s remarkable 15-year tenure as head coach.
In a defensive showcase, the Bruins allowed only 95 points combined in their final two games of the season, marking the second-fewest points ever allowed by a national championship team in the Final Four. UCLA’s defense was particularly impressive in the title game, holding South Carolina to under 30.0% shooting from the field and less than 15% from three-point range, a historic achievement.
Close, who has emphasized the importance of recruiting “uncommon, courageous women,” expressed her pride in the team’s journey. “It’s not about me. It’s about watching these incredible young women be dream chasers,” she stated, reflecting on the significance of the championship win.
Lauren Betts, who played a pivotal role in the tournament, was named the Most Outstanding Player (MOP) after the title win. Gianna Kneepkens also made a notable contribution, scoring 15 points in the championship game.
Close’s coaching philosophy has evolved over the years, particularly after experiencing a previous loss in the Final Four. She has focused on shaping her players into the best versions of themselves, a sentiment echoed by her players and colleagues.
Dawn Staley, head coach of South Carolina, praised Close for her hard work and contributions to women’s basketball, stating, “I’m always happy for people who worked hard in this game, who are really quality people.” This mutual respect underscores the growing recognition of women coaching at the highest levels of basketball.
As the dust settles on this historic championship, observers are eager to see how Close and her team will build on this success in the coming seasons. The journey of the Bruins and their coach continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
