UCLA Eyes Key Prospects in Transfer Portal Rebuild
As the transfer portal opens, UCLA is actively seeking key prospects to rebuild its women’s basketball team following a national championship. Head coach Cori Close faces the challenge of replacing six graduating players, including those who contributed all points in the championship game. With only one returning player, the Bruins are determined to strengthen their lineup.
UCLA’s Transfer Portal Strategy
UCLA aims to sign five transfers as they prepare for the next season. Coach Close expressed optimism about the transfer portal, noting that it will allow them to effectively fill crucial gaps in the roster. “The transfer portal just got easier,” she stated after the championship victory.
Current Roster Status
Two players, Timea Gardiner and Amanda Muse, are set to return, along with Sienna Betts, Lena Bilic, and Christina Karamouzi, none of whom started last season. This leaves significant openings for new talent.
Transfer Portal Prospects
With over 1,000 players entering the transfer portal within the first 24 hours, UCLA is focusing on several high-profile targets:
- Audi Crooks, Iowa State: A two-time All-American and an elite scorer, Crooks averaged 25.8 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. She is a primary target for UCLA, especially as they seek to enhance their scoring options.
- Lara Somfai, Stanford: An Australian forward with an impressive freshman year, Somfai averaged 9.1 rebounds per game and could fit UCLA’s needs for an aggressive offensive player.
- Aliyahna “Puff” Morris, California: After a challenging freshman season marred by injury, Morris is looking for a new opportunity. She averaged 7 points and 3.1 assists per game.
- Kymora Johnson, Virginia: Known for her role in leading Virginia to the Sweet 16, Johnson is looking to transfer after her coach’s departure.
- Talaysia Cooper, Tennessee: The top scorer for the Volunteers, Cooper averaged 16.1 points this season and has generated significant interest among teams.
- Kiyomi McMiller, Penn State: A potent scorer, McMiller averaged 21.6 points per game and is looking to continue her career at UCLA.
- Addie Deal, Iowa: An Irvine native, Deal brings potential with an impressive freshman record, having previously received a scholarship offer from UCLA.
- Filipa Barros, California Baptist: The MVP of the WAC tournament, Barros averaged over 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, showing promise for a higher level of competition.
Honorable Mentions
- Nunu Agara, Stanford: Averaged 15.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game.
- Achol Akot, Oklahoma State: A 6-foot-1 forward with potential.
- Madison St. Rose, Princeton: Averaged 15.9 points per game in her senior year.
- Jessica Peterson, Miami: A graduate center with a solid record in rebounds and points.
As UCLA prepares to defend its championship, they are poised to make significant changes through the transfer portal. The coming weeks will be crucial as they solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
