Brief

UCLA coach Cori Close keeps WNBA options open after championship

Close signed a contract with a reduced buyout for any move to the WNBA before March 2027.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 08 Oct 2026 19:18:28 GMT

UCLA women’s basketball head coach Cori Close told the California Post she has not ruled out a WNBA job, even after leading the Bruins to their first national title last spring.

What happened

Close, who signed a four‑year, $8.0375‑million extension in May, said a clause in that deal reduces her buyout from $2 million to $1.5 million if she leaves for a head‑coaching position in the WNBA before March 1, 2027. The reduced figure applies to each subsequent season through the contract’s end on March 31, 2030.

What the reports add

The New York Post article notes Close hired an executive coach to manage her workload and cited a recent conversation with UCLA chancellor Julio Frenk as evidence of administrative support. It also records her remarks about work‑life balance, including the desire to be a good daughter and friend.

What was said

Close said, “Honestly, I haven’t been doing that and I am determined to do so,” referring to balancing personal life with coaching duties. She added, “If I wasn’t able to find the right balance in college, that probably would be my next step, in the WNBA.” The piece also quotes her on faith: “God gave me this job, and he’s gonna let me know when it’s time to not have it.”

How it came about

After the Bruins’ championship win on April 9, 2026, Close’s contract extension included the buyout provision. Her hiring of an executive coach and the chancellor’s check‑in were described as steps toward sustainable excellence and personal well‑being.

Key facts

Cori Close’s contract includes a reduced buyout of $1.5 million for a WNBA move before March 1, 2027 (nypost.com)
Close signed a four‑year, $8.0375‑million extension in May 2026 (nypost.com)
She hired an executive coach to help manage her workload (nypost.com)