Dawn Staley Praises Cori Close After UCLA Tops South Carolina in Title Game

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley offered a moment of reflection and respect after her team’s 79–51 loss to UCLA in the NCAA women’s national championship game on Sunday. Despite the disappointment, Staley emphasized admiration for both the opposing program and its leadership.

The matchup carried added meaning due to the long-standing presence of two of college basketball’s most respected coaches. Staley has led the Gamecocks since the 2008–09 season and built a championship standard, while Cori Close has guided UCLA since the 2011–12 campaign.

Both coaches have shaped their programs into national contenders, with Staley winning three national titles and Close steadily building UCLA into a perennial tournament presence. The 2025–26 season ultimately became the breakthrough moment for Close’s program.

UCLA’s victory not only secured its first national championship but also came at the expense of one of the sport’s most established dynasties, adding historical weight to the result.

1. Staley Shows Respect in Defeat

Following the game, Staley made clear that while the loss was difficult, she held deep respect for UCLA’s performance and leadership. She emphasized sportsmanship and the character of the opposing program. Staley acknowledged that UCLA earned the championship through strong execution and consistency on both ends of the floor. The Bruins controlled the pace of the game and maintained composure throughout. Rather than focusing solely on South Carolina’s shortcomings, she highlighted the quality of UCLA’s team culture and preparation. Her comments reflected a broader appreciation for the level of competition in the title game. Staley’s remarks reinforced her reputation as a coach who values both rivalry and respect, even in moments of high-stakes defeat.

2. Cori Close’s Long Road to a Title

Cori Close’s journey to the national championship game was marked by steady program growth and repeated postseason breakthroughs. Prior to this season, UCLA had frequently reached the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight but struggled to advance further. The breakthrough came during the 2024–25 season, when UCLA reached the Final Four for the first time under Close, though the run ended against eventual champion UConn. That experience became a foundation for the following year. In the 2025–26 season, UCLA took the next step by advancing through the Final Four and into the national championship game. The team’s growth reflected both player development and tactical consistency. By defeating South Carolina, Close and her program completed their rise to the top of women’s college basketball, capturing the school’s first national title.

3. South Carolina’s Performance and Season Review

South Carolina struggled to find offensive rhythm in the championship game, with only two players finishing in double figures. The team was unable to sustain scoring runs against UCLA’s defensive pressure. Tessa Johnson led the Gamecocks with 14 points on efficient shooting, adding three rebounds and an assist. Agot Makeer contributed 11 points, while Joyce Edwards added eight points and 11 rebounds in a strong effort on the glass. Despite those individual performances, South Carolina’s overall offense never reached the level needed to challenge UCLA’s control of the game. The scoring gap widened as the matchup progressed. The Gamecocks closed the season with a 36–4 record, including a dominant 15–1 mark in SEC play. Looking ahead, the program is expected to retool in the offseason as it aims to return to championship contention in future seasons.