UCLA Women's Basketball: Returning Bruin Pegged To Emerge In 2023-24 Season

One of the biggest additions to the world of college athletics has been the frequent use of the transfer portal. It has allowed the athletes to move around almost at will, but it gives them more control over their careers.

The use of the transfer portal can be seen all across different collegiate sports, and it has really blown up. More than ever now, we see players going to different programs where they feel they can thrive in a better situation. It's rare nowadays for players to stay at one school for the entirety of their college experience, except if the situation is a great one to begin with.

For the UCLA Bruins women's basketball team, they will have a new center to work with this season. Lauren Betts joins the squad after transferring over from Stanford after just her freshman season.

Betts should really help the Bruins with their rebounding issues from last season, and it was a big get for the program. She will be relied upon heavily this coming season, as the Bruins look to improve themselves.

“Betts has already proven that she has unquestionable talent. This summer, she competed at the 2023 FIBA Women’s Americup, where she broke USA Basketball’s rebounding record — a skill that Close will utilize. Betts recorded a total of 76 rebounds at the tournament, surpassing the record from 1989.”

Per Alexis Hinkle of The Daily Bruin

She joins an already talented UCLA team after they reached the Sweet Sixteen a year ago. But her presence down low will only enhance what this team looks to do on offense, making his transfer one of the more impactful around the country.

“As an already solid team, UCLA women’s basketball is rounded out by Betts’ arrival in Westwood. Not only does she add her own touch of talent, but she will make the team better as a whole. With more time on the court, she will wow the world of collegiate women’s basketball.”

Per Alexis Hinkle of The Daily Bruin

There will be a lot of weight on the shoulders of Betts, but she seems up to the challenge. It should be another fun season for UCLA, and one that could end with them hoisting up the trophy if all goes well.

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