UCLA’s women’s basketball team is making headlines with a historic 17-0 start, demonstrating not only skill but resilience and leadership under Coach Cori Close. The Bruins’ latest victory over Penn State, marked by Lauren Betts’ standout performance, underscores their dominance on the court.
Betts’ impressive stats, including her 10th double-double and tying the program’s single-game block record, highlight her crucial role. Her ability to anchor the defense and enhance her teammates’ performance is a testament to her growing leadership and pivotal role in the team’s success. Close’s praise for Betts reflects the team’s reliance on her defensive and offensive presence, which has been a game-changer.
Despite the win, Close’s comments point to a desire for continuous improvement. She identified the team’s lackluster first quarter and stressed the importance of intensity and physicality from the start. The shift in defensive effort in the second quarter catalyzed their comeback, emphasizing the value of strong defense in dictating game tempo and creating offensive opportunities.
Close’s reflections extend beyond the game, touching on the growing recognition and investment in women’s sports. Her remarks about the NCAA’s approval for women’s teams to be compensated for tournament games underline the broader significance of their success, advocating for equal treatment and investment in women’s sports as valuable assets.
As UCLA gears up for the Coretta Scott King Classic against Baylor, the focus remains on sustaining their momentum through continuous improvement and purposeful play. Their journey is not just about winning but about setting a standard of excellence and leadership that resonates beyond the court.
