The expectation for the UCLA Bruins this season was another Final Four appearance. UCLA accomplished that goal with a come-from-behind win over Duke in the Elite Eight but now the Bruins have a chance at capturing that elusive first NCAA national title for the program.
UCLA was able to make a Final Four appearance last year with a less-talented roster. The Bruins added Gianna Kneepkens and Charlisse Leger-Walker, helping UCLA immediately become one of the most experienced teams in the country.
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The Bruins knows what lies ahead. First it’ll be another crack at Texas on Friday, and if UCLA can defeat the Longhorns, then they’ll face either South Carolina or UConn with a national title on the line. Despite the serious circumstances, Lauren Betts took time to voice her appreciation for the UCLA program and her head coach Cori Close after the Elite Eight win.
“This program means everything to me and Coach Cori is Coach Cori, I don’t want to get emotional but she means a lot to me. She’s helped all of us so much,” Betts said. “I’m just very grateful for her. She does so much off the court that you guys don’t really see. She’s hard on me every single day, and annoys me at times, but I know it’s because she loves me.”
That tough love is paying off for Betts and the Bruins. So far in this year’s NCAA tournament, Betts has put up 24.0 points, 8.5 rebounds and 3.0 blocks, including a career-high 35-point game versus Oklahoma State in the second round.
“This is just another step in our journey together,” Betts said. “Just really thankful.”
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Cori Close’s tough love for Lauren Betts is paying dividends for UCLA
