March Madness isn't just about the thrilling buzzer-beaters and intense matchups on the court; it's also a celebration of the exceptional coaches who inspire, mentor, and lead their teams to greatness. One of these exceptional coaches is Cori Close, head coach of UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team.
As head coach of the UCLA Bruins, Close has been instrumental in elevating the program's status through her coaching prowess and leadership. As of 2020, Close is only one of three coaches to win over 200 games with the program, additionally boasting the highest winning percentage of the three (0.662). With multiple NCAA tournament appearances, Close is developing and growing the program at UCLA.
Close is widely respected within the basketball community for her dedication to the sport and her positive impact on her players' lives. Close gives credit to her mentor, John Wooden on not only his coaching style but how he viewed his athletes.
“He taught me that these young women, and the growth of their experience—who they’re becoming, is way more important than anything else,” Close said. “And, to stay … it’s all about people and process.”
A good coach, a good mentor, cares about winning a game. A great coach cares about what happens to an athlete once the game ends.
In historically underserved communities, young girls face a significant opportunity gap due to complex social, economic, and educational challenges, creating formidable barriers to their success. With this in mind, 318 Foundation was founded.
Of our three programs, 318 SPORTS is dedicated to empowering exceptionally talented athletes who may lack exposure or the necessary support to unlock their full potential. Our mission is to create transformative elite training experiences that not only enhance their athletic abilities but also focus on personal growth and empowerment.
It is our goal to have girls from historically underserved communities have the access and opportunity to find coaches and mentors that will be as beneficial to them as John Wooden and Cori Close have both been to their UCLA community.
Taking inspiration, we aim to help guide the next generation. Join us in the journey towards excellence with 318 SPORTS.
Subscribe to our newsletter today and follow as we highlight other notable examples of excellent leadership and mentorship in collegiate sports throughout March Madness: https://www.318foundation.org/
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