30 Facts About UCLA Women’s Basketball

The Early Years

UCLA Women's Basketball has a rich history that dates back several decades. Here are some fascinating facts about its early years.

1. The team was established in 1974, marking the beginning of a new era for women's sports at UCLA.
2. Billie Moore, the first head coach, led the team to its first national championship in 1978.
3. In its inaugural season, the team posted a 17-7 record, setting a strong foundation for future success.
4. The 1978 championship team included Ann Meyers, who later became the first woman to sign a contract with an NBA team.

Legendary Players

Over the years, UCLA Women's Basketball has produced some legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

5. Ann Meyers was a four-time All-American and the first player to be drafted into the Women's Professional Basketball League (WBL).
6. Denise Curry, another standout, scored over 3,000 points during her college career, a record that still stands.
7. Natalie Williams, who played from 1990-1994, was a two-sport star, excelling in both basketball and volleyball.
8. Noelle Quinn, a versatile guard, was drafted fourth overall in the 2007 WNBA Draft.

Coaching Milestones

Coaching has played a pivotal role in the success of UCLA Women's Basketball. Here are some key coaching milestones.

9. Billie Moore, the first head coach, was inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999.
10. Kathy Olivier, who coached from 1993-2008, led the team to six NCAA Tournament appearances.
11. Cori Close, the current head coach, has revitalized the program since taking over in 2011.
12. Under Close's leadership, the team reached the Elite Eight in 2018, their best finish in over a decade.

Memorable Seasons

Certain seasons stand out in the history of UCLA Women's Basketball for their remarkable achievements.

13. The 1977-78 season culminated in the team's first national championship.
14. In the 1998-99 season, the team reached the Elite Eight for the first time since 1978.
15. The 2016-17 season saw the team finish with a 25-9 record, earning a spot in the Sweet 16.
16. The 2018-19 season was notable for a thrilling run to the Elite Eight, where they narrowly lost to UConn.

Rivalries and Big Games

Rivalries and big games have added excitement and drama to UCLA Women's Basketball over the years.

17. The rivalry with USC is one of the most intense in women's college basketball.
18. Games against Stanford often draw large crowds and high TV ratings.
19. The annual Pac-12 Tournament is a highlight of the season, with UCLA frequently making deep runs.
20. In 2017, UCLA defeated Baylor in a thrilling overtime game, one of the biggest upsets in program history.

Academic Excellence

UCLA Women's Basketball players are not just athletes; they excel academically as well.

21. The team consistently boasts one of the highest graduation rates in the Pac-12.
22. Many players have earned Academic All-American honors over the years.
23. The program emphasizes a balance between athletics and academics, preparing players for life beyond basketball.
24. Several former players have gone on to successful careers in medicine, law, and business.

Community Involvement

Community involvement is a cornerstone of the UCLA Women's Basketball program.

25. The team regularly participates in community service projects, including youth basketball clinics.
26. Players often visit local schools to promote the importance of education and physical fitness.
27. The program has partnered with various charities to raise funds and awareness for important causes.
28. Each year, the team hosts a Breast Cancer Awareness game, raising thousands of dollars for research.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for UCLA Women's Basketball, with a strong foundation and promising recruits.

29. The team continues to attract top high school talent from across the country.
30. With a state-of-the-art training facility and a dedicated coaching staff, the program is poised for continued success.

The Final Buzzer

UCLA Women's Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and inspiring stories. From their championship wins to the dedicated players who have donned the blue and gold, this team has left an indelible mark on college basketball. Their commitment to excellence, both on and off the court, showcases the true spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just learning about them, there's no denying the impact UCLA Women's Basketball has had over the years. Their journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of unity. As they continue to strive for greatness, one thing is certain: the legacy of UCLA Women's Basketball will continue to inspire future generations. So, next time you catch a game, remember the incredible history behind every dribble, pass, and shot.