UCLA women's basketball is riding an incredible wave of success, and the program is making sure its architect stays right where she belongs. On Tuesday, the school announced a four-year contract extension for head coach Cori Close, locking her in through the 2029-30 season—a well-deserved reward after leading the Bruins to their first-ever national championship.

Close's squad made history last month with a dominant 79-51 victory over South Carolina, capping off a season for the ages. The Bruins posted a program-best 31-game winning streak, claimed their first undefeated regular-season Big Ten championship, and secured a second straight conference tournament title. It was the perfect follow-up to last season's historic Final Four run, which marked the first time UCLA women's basketball had reached that stage.

“Winning a national championship is a tremendous achievement,” said athletic director Martin Jarmond. “But what truly stands out with Cori is the character, leadership and daily commitment she and her staff bring to developing student-athletes into the best versions of themselves.”

Now in her 15th season at the helm, Close, 54, boasts an impressive 358-144 record and remains the only coach in program history to surpass 300 wins. Her impact extends beyond the court: the Bruins had a record six players selected in last month's WNBA draft, a testament to the talent pipeline she's built in Westwood.

“I love being here in Westwood, and I am so excited for what the future holds,” Close said in a statement. With this extension, the future looks brighter than ever for UCLA women's basketball—and for fans who love seeing champions in blue and gold.