UCLA women's basketball is soaring to new heights, and head coach Cori Close is being rewarded for leading the charge. After guiding the Bruins to their first-ever NCAA championship last month, Close has signed a four-year contract extension that keeps her in Westwood through the 2029-30 season.

The Bruins' dominant 79-51 victory over South Carolina was the crowning achievement of a historic season. But as athletic director Martin Jarmond noted, Close's impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. "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 in a statement.

Under Close's steady hand, UCLA women's basketball has become a powerhouse. The 2024-25 season saw the Bruins post a program-best 31-game winning streak, secure the school's first undefeated regular-season Big Ten championship, and capture a second straight league tournament title. Last season also marked UCLA's first-ever Final Four appearance—a sign that this program is built for sustained success.

Close, 54, has compiled a remarkable 358-144 record over 15 seasons, making her the only coach in program history to surpass 300 wins. Her ability to develop talent was on full display in last month's WNBA draft, where a record six Bruins were selected.

"I love being here in Westwood, and I am so excited for what the future holds," Close said in a statement. With a national title in hand and a roster that continues to attract top talent, the future indeed looks bright for UCLA women's basketball.