UCLA Women's Basketball Chasing First National Title

Bruins reach new heights with star players Betts and Rice leading the way

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action of a UCLA women's basketball game, with the players' movements and the court itself broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of blue, gold, and white.UCLA's dynamic duo of Betts and Rice lead the Bruins' charge towards the program's first national championship.Los Angeles Today

The UCLA women's basketball team has emerged as one of the top programs in the country in recent years, led by standout players Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice. Despite never having won a national championship, the Bruins have made multiple deep NCAA Tournament runs and are poised to capture their first title.

Why it matters

UCLA's rise to prominence in women's basketball is significant, as the program has long been overshadowed by the school's powerhouse men's team. A national championship would cement the Bruins as an elite program and inspire more young players to join the team's quest for glory.

The details

Under the leadership of head coach Cori Close, UCLA has steadily improved, making the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 in 2022 and 2023 before advancing to the Final Four in 2024. The additions of Betts and Rice have taken the team to new heights, with both players earning All-American honors and leading the Bruins to a No. 2 national ranking this season.

  • UCLA made its first-ever Final Four appearance in 2024.
  • The Bruins are currently ranked No. 2 in the nation for the 2025-26 season.

The players

Lauren Betts

A dominant 6'5" center who has been a force in the paint for UCLA, earning multiple All-American selections.

Kiki Rice

A dynamic point guard who has led the Bruins' offense and emerged as one of the top players in the country.

Cori Close

The head coach of the UCLA women's basketball team, who has guided the program to new heights in recent years.

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What they’re saying

“This team has the potential to do something really special. We've been knocking on the door, and now it's time to kick it down.”

— Kiki Rice, UCLA Point Guard

“Coach Close has built something truly remarkable here. The culture, the talent, the drive - it's all coming together at the perfect time.”

— Lauren Betts, UCLA Center

What’s next

The Bruins will look to continue their strong play and secure a top seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, with the ultimate goal of winning the program's first national championship.

The takeaway

UCLA's women's basketball team has emerged as a national powerhouse, and a championship this season would cement the Bruins' status as an elite program and inspire the next generation of players to join the quest for glory.