Understanding Why UCLA Has Not Landed a Center

Breaking down possible explanations for why UCLA's center room is still empty.

Mar 22, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins center Xavier Booker (1) reacts against the UConn Huskies in the first half during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

If one thing is clear, it is that UCLA has not fully addressed the center position this offseason.

Last season, UCLA never found a true answer at center. Xavier Booker showed flashes, but over time, it became clear he was not a long-term solution in that role. As a result, UCLA was forced to adjust its lineups, which ultimately limited the team’s ceiling.

Current Options on Roster

Mar 11, 2026; Nashville, TN, USA; Auburn Tigers guard Keyshawn Hall (7) strips the ball from Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Sergej Macura (11) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Right now, UCLA has several options to fill the position. Booker remains the most likely starter, with support from Javonte Floyd, Sergej Macura, and Filip Jovic. Each brings something different, but none are proven, traditional anchors in the paint.

From the outside, it appears UCLA has not aggressively pursued a true center in the portal. While multiple impact bigs have transferred elsewhere, UCLA has remained relatively quiet at the position. Perhaps, the Bruins have a big plan in mind but have not been able to seal the deal yet,

Feb 28, 2026; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers forward Filip Jovic (38) controls a rebound during the second half against the Mississippi Rebels at Neville Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-Imagn Images | John Reed-Imagn Images

That raises valid questions, especially considering how much the lack of interior presence hurt the Bruins last season. With two roster spots still open, there is still time to address it — but the current approach suggests there may be a different plan.

Possible Explanations

Mar 14, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; UCLA Bruins center Xavier Booker (1) reacts after making a three point basket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

One explanation is trust in Booker’s development. Toward the end of the season, he began to show real progress. In UCLA’s final two games, he averaged 14 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks while playing nearly 30 minutes per game. Those flashes may have been enough to convince the staff that he can handle the role moving forward.

Another factor is the additions UCLA has already made. Macura and Jovic both bring physicality and rebounding — areas in which UCLA struggled last season. While neither is a true center, they provide support in the frontcourt and could help compensate for the lack of size.

Mar 20, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA;UCF Knights center John Bol (7) grabs a rebound againist UCLA Bruins center Xavier Booker (1) in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images | Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

There is also a stylistic element to consider. Under Mick Cronin, UCLA has shown a willingness to play smaller lineups. Late last season, the Bruins were comfortable playing without a traditional center, prioritizing mobility, spacing, and defensive versatility.

Because of that, the lack of a true center may not be an oversight — it may be intentional.

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

The bottom line is that UCLA’s approach to the center position appears to be by design. Rather than targeting a traditional big, the focus has been on improving rebounding, physicality, and flexibility. Whether that strategy works will ultimately determine how far this team can go next season.