UCLA Entering NCAA Title Game with 'Businesslike' Mindset PHOENIX — UCLA’s journey to its first NCAA championship game has been marked by a shift in mindset, as head coach Cori Close emphasized a strategic, focused approach to the final showdown against South Carolina. The Bruins, making their debut in the national title game, have drawn on lessons from their 2023 Final Four run, where they fell in the semifinals. Close described the team’s current preparation as a stark contrast to last year’s experience, highlighting how the team’s maturity and planning have evolved. The 2024 season has been a transformative chapter for UCLA, with the Bruins advancing to the title game after a 51-44 victory over Texas in the semifinals. Close noted that the team’s approach this year has been fundamentally different from the previous year, when they were “reacting to everything” rather than anticipating challenges. “Last year, we were reacting to everything, not anticipating,” she said during a press conference. “Whereas now that we have been a part of this, it just was a totally different planning experience. I just felt like we were able to be more strategic in how we put our players in position to be successful.” The Bruins’ preparation has also been influenced by the experiences of returning players from the 2023 Final Four. Close mentioned that several veterans shared insights with newer team members, helping to shape the team’s mindset. “That makes all the difference in the world,” she said, underscoring the value of mentorship and continuity. South Carolina, the Bruins’ title game opponent, presents a formidable challenge. The Gamecocks have made six consecutive Final Four appearances and are set to play in their fourth national title game.#ucla #south_carolina #gamecocks #cori_close #gabriela_jaquez
