UCLA Women's Basketball Coach Cori Close Signs Lucrative Four-Year Contract Extension

UCLA Women's Basketball Coach Cori Close Signs Lucrative Four-Year Contract Extension

UCLA women's basketball coach, Cori Close, has signed a new four-year contract that will significantly increase her compensation, making her one of the top 10 highest-paid college coaches in women's basketball. The new deal, averaging around $2 million per year, follows Close's successful leadership that led the Bruins to an NCAA championship. The contract extension runs through the 2029-2030 season, highlighting Close's character, leadership, and commitment to developing student-athletes.

With this new contract, Close joins the ranks of elite women's college basketball coaches, trailing behind renowned coaches like Dawn Staley, Geno Auriemma, Kim Mulkey, and Vic Schaefer. Close's impressive coaching record includes consecutive Final Four appearances and UCLA's first-ever NCAA championship. Her success on the court, coupled with her dedication to academic and personal development, has earned her recognition and support from the UCLA community.

Close's previous contract, which rewarded her with a $1.2 million salary last season, included performance bonuses that she successfully triggered after a remarkable season that culminated in a national title win. Her emphasis on academic excellence and personal growth has been reflected in her players' achievements, with all six recent WNBA draftees graduating and three earning master's degrees. Close's commitment to both athletic and academic success has solidified her position as a respected and valued leader within the UCLA women's basketball program.