The UCLA Bruins are back in the Final Four, a feat that doesn't come to any team — no matter how talented they are — very easily. And if anyone is aware of that, it's likely this specific Bruins roster. Much of the team was on hand last year when they suffered a disappointing loss to UConn, and their November 2025 loss to the Texas Longhorns is still fairly fresh.
In fact, it's probable the team has spent time this week reviewing film from that game against Texas, since the Longhorns handed the Bruins their only loss of the season when they met in November. In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, several members of the team and coach Cori Close reflected on what they've learned since then, and how important it is that the team stays focused on what they can control and what's in front of them, not on outside noise.
UCLA has learned how to let some of the game unfold organically
Charlisse Leger-Walker told the outlet that one of the biggest lessons the team has learned is to be aggressive from the beginning and to let the chips fall where they may. It's important that they focus on trying to "not be reactive to situations," she explained. Instead, see where the game is going, control what you can control, and respond naturally.
This will help the Bruins as they face the Longhorns, she added. "I think we’ve made a lot of improvements since that game. Obviously, they have too, and it’s going to be a completely different game from both sides."
Close also noted that aggression will be a big part of the team's match against Texas. The Longhorns are known for jumping out of the gate early with a lot of energy, and also for being able to maintain that energy throughout the 40 minutes it takes to finish a basketball game. That can be pretty formidable for their opposition.
The team is also hyper-aware of the fact that this year's Final Four will be played by "powerhouses" as the outlet put it — not Cinderella teams. That's a great look for the women's game in general, Close added, and it shows that there is a lot to enjoy and appreciate about it. The field is "an elite group," she said, "and I’m very fortunate to be a part of it, but I’m also very confident that we belong and that we are excited to try to play our best basketball this weekend."
The Bruins and the Longhorns will face one another on Friday, April 3, at 6:30 pm local time. The Bruins are focused on staying locked in, which may serve them well. Win, lose, or draw, they'll known soon enough if the effort they've put in this season will carry them over the ultimate finish line.