Cori Close: Coaching Star, Family Matriarch

During her time as head coach, Cori Close has elevated the UCLA Bruins program to national prominence, securing the 2025 Big Ten Tournament title and advancing deep into the 2026 March Madness tournament. While Close has achieved notable professional success, she remains unmarried. Born in Milpitas on July 29, 1971, she has dedicated her life to basketball, excelling as a player at UC Santa Barbara before entering coaching. Close has humorously addressed her marital status, once listing "finding a husband" as a bucket list item, and has spoken about the challenges women face in balancing top-tier coaching careers. Her primary support comes from her mother, Patti Close, known as "Mother Bruin." Patti has been a consistent presence since Cori became head coach in 2011, often accompanying the team to games and international trips. Following the passing of her father, Don, the bond between Cori and Patti has strengthened. As the Bruins aim for a national championship in 2026, Close remains focused on the team she considers family, with her personal legacy as a leader, daughter, and mentor firmly established.