Cori Close has truly made her mark on the UCLA women’s basketball program. In her 14-year tenure as head coach, Close has transformed the team into a powerhouse, leading them to multiple NCAA tournaments and their first-ever Final Four appearance. But beyond the on-court success, Close has also been instrumental in addressing a major off-court problem that has plagued the program for years.
Before Close took over as head coach in 2011, the UCLA women’s basketball team had only reached 11 NCAA tournaments in 30 seasons. However, under Close’s leadership, they have already reached 9 tournaments in just 14 years, showcasing her ability to build a consistently strong and competitive team.
But Close’s impact goes beyond just numbers and statistics. She has created a culture of excellence and hard work within the team, pushing her players to reach their full potential both on and off the court. This has resulted in the team’s first-ever AP No. 1 ranking in program history, a milestone that speaks to the level of success Close has achieved with her team.
Last year, Close led the UCLA women’s basketball team to their first-ever Final Four appearance, a major accomplishment that had eluded the program for decades. This not only solidified Close’s status as one of the best coaches in the country, but it also put the UCLA women’s basketball program on the map as a top contender in the fiercely competitive world of college basketball.
But amidst all the success, Close has also been dealing with a major off-court problem that has been a longstanding issue within the program. The UCLA women’s basketball team, like many other college sports teams, has struggled with mental health and well-being, a problem that is often overlooked and ignored in the high-pressure world of college athletics.
Close, however, has made it her mission to address this issue head-on. She understands the toll that the demanding schedule and constant pressure can take on her players and has taken proactive steps to ensure their mental and emotional well-being. Close has implemented a new program within the team that focuses on mindfulness, meditation, and mental health support for her players.
In an interview with EssentiallySports, Close revealed that this off-court problem is something she has been working on for years, even before the team’s historic Final Four run. She believes that mental health is just as important as physical health, and it is crucial for her players to have a support system in place to help them navigate the challenges of being a student-athlete.
Close’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as her players have spoken highly of the impact the mindfulness program has had on them. They credit it for helping them stay focused, calm, and mentally strong during the grueling basketball season.
Close’s dedication to addressing this off-court problem within the program is a testament to her commitment to the overall well-being of her players. She understands that being a successful coach goes beyond just winning games and championships; it also means taking care of her players as human beings.
In a world where mental health is still stigmatized and often overlooked, Close’s actions set a positive example for other coaches and athletes. She has shown that it is possible to be successful in sports while also prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of players.
As the UCLA women’s basketball program continues to thrive under Close’s leadership, it is clear that she has not only changed the face of the team but also made a lasting impact on the lives of her players. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence have elevated the program to new heights, and her efforts to address the off-court problem have made her a role model for coaches and athletes everywhere.
In conclusion, Cori Close has truly transformed the UCLA women’s basketball program, leading them to unprecedented success on the court while also addressing a major off-court problem. Her impact goes beyond wins and losses; she has created a culture of excellence and care within the team, setting an inspiring example for others to follow. As Close continues to make her mark on the program, it is clear that she is not just a coach, but a leader and a mentor for her players.
