UCLA's Trent Perry Staying for Junior Season

Bruins guard opts to remain in Westwood after breakout sophomore campaign

Apr. 4, 2026 at 7:38pm

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UCLA sophomore guard Trent Perry has decided to stay with the Bruins for his junior season, a source confirmed on Saturday. Perry, a Los Angeles native, has emerged as a key leader and versatile scoring threat for the Bruins after a limited role as a freshman.

Why it matters

In an era dominated by the transfer portal, Perry's decision to remain at UCLA for a third season is noteworthy. The Bruins will retain a proven playmaker and perimeter scorer as they look to build on last season's success.

The details

After averaging just 11.3 minutes per game as a freshman, Perry stepped up in a big way when opportunity knocked this past season. With senior guard Skyy Clark sidelined by injury, Perry seized a larger role, averaging 16.7 points per game and shooting 48.8% from 3-point range over a key stretch. His clutch performance, including a game-tying 30-foot shot to force overtime against Indiana, showcased his growth as a player.

  • In early January, Perry's playing time increased from 21 minutes per game to 36 as UCLA approached the bulk of its Big Ten schedule.
  • In mid-February, Perry earned a spot in UCLA's starting lineup when Clark returned from injury.

The players

Trent Perry

A sophomore guard for the UCLA Bruins who has emerged as a key leader and scoring threat for the team after a limited role as a freshman.

Mick Cronin

The head coach of the UCLA men's basketball team, who has vocalized his desire to retain Perry and praised the player's intelligence and character.

Skyy Clark

A senior guard for UCLA who missed time due to injury, allowing Perry to step into a larger role this past season.

David Rebibo

The head coach of Perry's former high school team, Harvard-Westlake, who has praised Perry's leadership and well-rounded game.

Troy Perry

Trent Perry's father, who encouraged his son to develop his own positive on-court persona and identity.

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What they’re saying

“If anybody belongs here on our team, for what UCLA's about academically, and the kind of person he is, it's Trent Perry.”

— Mick Cronin, UCLA Head Coach

“He's an unbelievable teammate. He's an unbelievable person. High character. Very smart. And he cares.”

— David Rebibo, Harvard-Westlake Head Coach

“When you look out there on the court, everyone's looking mad, everyone looking tense. Why don't you be different?”

— Troy Perry, Trent Perry's Father

What’s next

With Perry's decision to stay at UCLA, the Bruins can now focus on building around their versatile guard as they look to build on last season's success in the highly competitive Big Ten conference.

The takeaway

Trent Perry's decision to remain at his hometown school of UCLA, despite the allure of the transfer portal, reflects his strong character, leadership abilities, and commitment to the Bruins' program. His growth on the court and in the classroom make him an invaluable asset for UCLA as they aim to contend for championships.