Luke Joseph

Joined: Dec 27, 2025

Luke Joseph is the Beat Writer for UCLA On SI and a graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in journalism. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of sports and commitment to storytelling, he brings the latest news with insight and expertise.

Apr 5, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Cori Close against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Nov 22, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks wide receiver Brian Rowe Jr. (18) gets around Coastal Carolina Chanticleers cornerback Chris Henry (17) in the second half at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

May 2, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) throws the ball during the spring game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

May 2, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins coach Bob Chesney reacts during the spring game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

UCLA women's basketball rebuilt the roster through the portal, and one familiar face is the key for the Bruins to defend their title.

Apr 5, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins forward Sienna Betts (16) with head coach Cori Close against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

UCLA is heading into a new season, excited to defend its championship.

Bob Chesney found his leader of the defense through the portal.

UCLA's safety duo might be near the top of the Big Ten.

Apr 5, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins center Lauren Betts (51) against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the National Championship game of the women's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The UCLA star center keeps adding to her trophy case after having one of the best seasons in women's college basketball history.

UCLA could start the season winning its first game.

The UCLA linebackers could be the best unit in the Big Ten.

Mar 20, 2025; Lexington, KY, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cornin calls to his team during the second half against the Utah State Aggies in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

UCLA was in desperate need of player development.

The Bruins look to be respectable in the Big Ten, but their first loss could come early.

Mar 20, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin reacts in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Mick Cronin could have a bounce-back season with the offseason moves he made.

The defensive line was in need of help, and if this player steps up, it will be a better unit next season.

Even with roster improvements, UCLA might not be viewed as a team capable of competing in the Big Ten.

Luke Joseph

Joined: Dec 27, 2025

Why UCLA WBB Has Lesser Expectations Heading Into 2026-27

Why Brian Rowe Jr. Can Be UCLA's Breakout Star in 2026

Why Nico Iamaleava Is UCLA's X-Factor This Season

Ranking Every UCLA Position Group Entering Fall Camp

UCLA’s Crucial Portal Addition Signals Title Defense Strategy

UCLA Women’s Basketball Begins Reloading After Championship Departures

UCLA Football 2026 Top 30 Players Countdown: No. 6

UCLA Football 2026 Top 30 Players Countdown: No. 7

UCLA's Betts Wins ESPY Award After Amazing Senior Season

Predicting UCLA Football's First Win of 2026 Season

UCLA Football 2026 Top 30 Players Countdown: No. 8

UCLA Basketball Makes Major Move To Adapt to New Era

Predicting UCLA Football's First Loss of 2026 Season

Honest Assessment of UCLA Basketball's Preseason Expectations

UCLA Football 2026 Top 30 Players Countdown: No. 9

How UCLA Football Can Prove Doubters Wrong in 2026