Key UCLA Rotation Piece Re-Signs for 2026-27 Season

UCLA was able to re-sign several core players on April 1, one of whom was Brandon Williams.

Williams was one of the more impactful Bruins throughout the season. He served as the glue that helped hold the defense together during what was otherwise a volatile year. With him set to return, UCLA now has some peace of mind when evaluating its depth heading into next season.

Next Season's Ceiling Explored

Williaams — Mar 14, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Brandon Williams (5) reacts after dunking the ball on Purdue Boilermakers guard Braden Smith (3) during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

Last season, Brandon Williams averaged 12.1 minutes per game, scoring 2.6 points along with 1.9 rebounds, while shooting 41.6% from the field. His statistics, however, do not tell the entire story. Williams’ presence in the paint often helped UCLA stay afloat defensively and was key to slowing teams down there.

Considering that Williams frequently served as UCLA’s primary interior defender — despite standing just 6-foot-7 — he was often placed in uncomfortable situations. Even so, Williams applied immense pressure defensively, which helped UCLA’s defense look much stronger overall.

Willismd — Mar 13, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Brandon Williams (5) scores against the Michigan State Spartans during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

With another year in Mick Cronin’s system, Williams should continue to develop. One of the biggest factors that has allowed him to remain impactful is his ability to score underneath the basket while drawing contact, something UCLA could certainly use more of moving forward. Williams should be able to grow into a very dangerous role player.

Next Season's Role

Next season, Williams could become a full-time rotation player at forward. However, that will likely depend on whether UCLA can secure a solid center through the transfer portal. If the Bruins accomplish that, Williams could become an important defensive piece within the rotation.

Like this season, Williams will most likely play behind Xavier Booker. The two bring very different skill sets, which should make UCLA a more dynamic team overall. Booker provides offensive production, while Williams offers defensive stability.

williakm — Feb 7, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Brandon Williams (5) is defended by Washington Huskies center Lathan Sommerville (24) as he drives to the basket in the first half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Even though Williams is not known as a scorer, he still made several timely shots from beyond the arc. Last season, he shot 25% from three-point range, but those moments occasionally provided UCLA with a boost. If he can continue to develop that part of his game, the Booker-Williams dynamic could become even more effective.

The bottom line is that Williams is unlikely to be a guaranteed starter for UCLA next season. However, there is still a chance he could find himself in the starting lineup if UCLA’s offseason additions do not fully address the roster’s needs. Either way, bringing Williams back significantly improves UCLA’s outlook heading into next season.