Cori Close, UCLA WCBB Agree to 4-Year Contract Extension After National Title Win

UCLA women's basketball head coach Cori Close agreed to a four-year contract extension with the school on Tuesday.

Close and the Bruins are coming off a 2025-26 campaign in which they won the women's NCAA tournament, capturing a national championship after defeating South Carolina by the final score of 79-51 in the title game.

UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond discussed Close's impact on the team following her contract extension.

"Winning a national championship is a tremendous achievement, but what truly stands out with Cori is the character, leadership and daily commitment she and her staff bring to developing student-athletes into the best versions of themselves," Jarmond said, via the Associated Press (h/t ESPN).

Close has served as UCLA's head coach since 2011, as the team has compiled a 358-114 record and made 10 March Madness appearances throughout her tenure.

The Bruins have advanced to the Final Four in each of the past two seasons, owning a 71-4 record over that span. During their 2025-26 campaign, they went on a 31-game win streak that culminated in the victory over the Gamecocks to secure a national title.

While UCLA lost six players to the WNBA draft from its 2025-26 squad, Close will look to lead a revamped group next season that includes transfer additions Addy Brown, Elina Aarnisalo, KK Bransford, Bonnie Deas and Donovyn Hunter.