UCLA's athletic department has officially extended the tenure of its decorated women's basketball head coach, Cori Close, solidifying her position at the helm of the program for several more seasons. This decision comes on the heels of a historic national championship win, a testament to Close's exceptional leadership and strategic prowess. While specific financial figures for the new agreement, which runs until the 2029-30 season, were not publicly disclosed by the university, various reports indicate that her annual earnings are estimated to be around $2 million.
Athletic Director Martin Jarmond lauded Coach Close's profound impact beyond mere victories, emphasizing her dedication to nurturing the character and leadership qualities of her student-athletes. He highlighted the unparalleled success of the 2025-26 season, where Close guided the Bruins to an impressive 37-1 record, culminating in a decisive 79-51 triumph over South Carolina in the national championship game. This stellar performance also saw a remarkable six players from her roster selected in the WNBA Draft, with five securing first-round picks, showcasing her ability to develop top-tier talent.
Coach Close, 54, expressed deep gratitude to the university leadership and her entire team for the opportunity to continue her work in Westwood. With a career record of 358-144 over 15 seasons at UCLA, including 10 appearances in the Women's NCAA Tournament, her achievements are extensive. Her accolades include being named Naismith National Coach of the Year in 2024-25 and Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2025-26, underscoring her consistent excellence and unwavering commitment to the program's 'UNCOMMON mission' and values.
This contract extension signifies more than just a reward for past achievements; it represents a forward-looking commitment to sustained excellence and the continued development of young women both on and off the court. It reinforces the idea that true success encompasses not only winning titles but also fostering an environment of growth, integrity, and empowerment, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.