Home / Sports / UCLA Seniors Chase National Title Glory
UCLA Seniors Chase National Title Glory
26 Mar
Summary
- Six UCLA seniors are aiming for the program's first national championship.
- Last year's Final Four loss fuels the team's determination this season.
- The Bruins are on a 27-game winning streak heading into the Sweet 16.
The UCLA women's basketball team's six graduating seniors are nearing the end of their time in Westwood, with their sights set on winning the program's first national championship. After a significant loss in the 2025 Final Four, the team has committed to unity and selfless play, transforming that heartbreak into motivation for the current season.
Currently a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament, UCLA boasts a 27-game winning streak, second only to UConn. The Bruins recently secured a spot in the Sweet 16 and are now just four wins away from their championship aspiration. Key players like Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice have embraced team-oriented roles, leading to career-best performances and a more balanced squad.
Reflecting on the significant 2025 Final Four defeat where they turned the ball over 19 times and missed 12 three-pointers, the seniors have used the experience to foster greater chemistry and a relentless work ethic. Their journey through the regular season, including a Big Ten title, has prepared them for the NCAA tournament, where they aim to write a different, triumphant ending.
During their final home game on March 24, 2026, the seniors showcased their dominance. Lauren Betts scored a career-high 35 points, supported by strong performances from Charisse Leger-Walker, Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, and Angela Dugalić. This victory propelled them into the regional semifinals, a testament to their commitment and the program's development under coach Cori Close.
