Cori Close is staying in Westwood, and UCLA fans have every reason to celebrate. The Bruins women's basketball head coach has signed a contract extension that will keep her at the helm through at least the 2029-30 season, the university announced Tuesday.
This news comes on the heels of UCLA's historic 2024-25 campaign—their first NCAA women's national championship since 1978 (when they won under the AIAW). The Bruins capped off their magical run with a dominant 79-51 victory over South Carolina in the title game, cementing their place in college basketball history.
While the school didn't disclose financial terms of the deal, athletic director Martin Jarmond made it clear why locking in Close was a top priority. "We are extremely proud of what Cori has accomplished in leading our young women," Jarmond said. "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 help developing her players into the best versions of themselves."
Close has been the architect of UCLA's rise since taking over in 2011. Her 358-144 record makes her the first women's basketball coach in program history to surpass 300 wins. Under her guidance, the Bruins have reached the NCAA Tournament 10 times and made two Final Four appearances, including this past season's championship run.
The accolades have piled up for Close. She swept the AP, Naismith, and WBCA National Coach of the Year awards in 2024-25, and earned back-to-back honors from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. She also took home Big Ten Coach of the Year last season after winning Pac-12 Coach of the Year in 2019.
"I love being here in Westwood, and I am so excited for what the future holds," Close said in a statement. "It fills me with such joy to share this with our village, and I hope we can continue to make our Bruin faithful proud."
The future is indeed bright. In last month's WNBA Draft, six UCLA players were selected—a record for any program in a single draft, surpassing UConn's 2002 mark of four first-round picks. Five of those six went in the first round, signaling that Close's program is not just winning titles, but developing elite talent ready for the next level.
For Bruins fans looking to rep their championship-winning coach and program, this extension means the dynasty is just getting started.