Cori Close’s tenure as the head coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball has not only elevated the program’s status but also her own financial standing. Appointed on April 21, 2011, Close has built a solid record of 260 wins to 133 losses, showcasing her ability to lead this competitive team. Her coaching prowess was seen last season, where she guided the Bruins to a remarkable 27-win season, tying for the third-most victories in the program’s history.

So how much is She earning?

Although Cori Close doesn’t earn anything near what top coaches of the NCAA like Kim Mulkey make, in 2024, Close earned a respectable $774,722, which included a school salary of $773,222 and a small additional amount. Despite the financial strain from the COVID-19 pandemic affecting salaries across the board, Close’s pay indicates her importance to the Bruins. Her contract also included a maximum bonus potential of $170,000, highlighting the expectations placed upon her by UCLA leadership.

Close’s impact on the UCLA program has been undeniable. She achieved significant milestones, including leading the Bruins to their first victory over UConn, a powerhouse in women’s basketball, with a 78-67 victory in the Cayman Islands Classic in 2023.

Her coaching acumen was further demonstrated by UCLA’s NCAA-leading rebounding margin of +13.9 under her tenure during the 2023-24 season. Under Close’s direction, the team not only excelled on the court but also earned individual accolades, with three players receiving All-Pac-12 honors. Notably, Charisma Osborne became the seventh Bruin under Close to be drafted into the WNBA.

Beyond her on-court success, Close also received the 2024 WBCA Carol Eckman Integrity in Coaching Award, an honor that reflected her commitment to sportsmanship and behavior that has earned her respect within the coaching community.

Coach Cori Close before UCLA

How did Cori’s journey to UCLA begin? Before her role with the Bruins in 2011, Coach Close spent years as an assistant head coach for Florida State University and associate head coach at her alma mater, UC Santa Barbara. In fact, much of her understanding of her players stems from being a player herself. Close was a star player for the UCSB Gauchos, serving as a team captain during the 1992 and 1993 seasons while leading them to the NCAA Tournament both years.

And the 2022-23 season was a testament to this winning pedigree. While it proved challenging as the Bruins faced injuries amidst COVID-19 disruptions. Yet, Close demonstrated resilience and adaptability by leading the team to the semifinals of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT), showcasing her ability to navigate difficult circumstances while keeping the team competitive.

Throughout her career, Close has consistently nurtured WNBA draft picks. From Jordin Canada to Michaela Onyenwere, her track record of nurturing good talent is remarkable.

Hence, as the Bruins continue to build on their successes, Cori Close’s financial and professional trajectory appears set to rise further. With her vision for the program and young talents, like Juju Watkins under her command, she remains as UCLA’s Lynchpin for their pursuit of championship glory.