Cori Close, 52, has built one of the most respected careers in NCAA women’s basketball. As the head coach of the UCLA Bruins since 2011, she’s guided the program to national prominence with her intense leadership, team-first philosophy, and faith-driven approach. But beyond her coaching success, many fans wonder about a different side of her life: Is Cori Close married?
The answer is no—Cori Close is not married, and she has been candid, even humorous, about her single status.
A Life Dedicated to the Game
Born on July 29, 1971, in Milpitas, California, Close’s connection to basketball started early. She starred as a point guard at UC Santa Barbara, where her court vision and leadership were impossible to ignore. Close’s playing career, which included helping UCSB to four NCAA Tournament appearances, laid the foundation for her future as a coach.
After earning her degree, she began her coaching journey as an assistant at UCLA (1993–1995), returned to her alma mater UCSB (1995–2004), and then spent seven years at Florida State. She made her return to UCLA in 2011—not as an assistant, but as the head coach, where she’s remained ever since.
Under Close’s leadership, the Bruins have become a consistent force in women’s college basketball. Her teams have reached the NCAA Tournament multiple times, and she led them to a WNIT Championship in 2015. Most recently, in 2025, UCLA claimed the Big Ten Tournament title, a milestone that solidified her place among the elite coaches in the game.
Her Private Life: No Ring, No Rush
While her coaching achievements are well-documented, Close keeps her personal life almost entirely out of the spotlight. In an age when social media often blurs the line between public and private, Close has made a conscious choice to protect hers. This has fueled speculation about her relationship status—but according to all public records and interviews, she is not married.
In fact, she’s been lighthearted about it. In a Meet Coach Close feature published by UCLA Women’s Basketball, she jokingly listed “finding a husband” as one of the top items on her bucket list. When asked about people she’d most like to meet, she included Mother Teresa, Tony Dungy, and her “future husband.” These responses show that while she may think about love, it’s far from her primary focus.
Her dedication to basketball is legendary. Coaching at the highest level requires seven-day weeks, constant travel, recruiting, and round-the-clock preparation. For Close, the sport isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. If marriage is in the cards one day, it will have to coexist with her first and longest love: the game.
Guided by Faith and Purpose
One of the most defining aspects of Cori Close’s life is her deep Christian faith. She often credits her relationship with God as the foundation of her leadership style. Her coaching philosophy includes gratitude, resilience, service, and purpose, all values rooted in her spiritual beliefs.
Close speaks frequently about how her faith helps her stay grounded, especially in high-pressure moments during tournament seasons. It’s not uncommon for her to discuss mindset, grace, and humility with her players, offering them lessons that extend far beyond basketball.
Her faith also contributes to her sense of contentment in personal life. While many wonder if she’ll eventually get married, Close seems at peace with where she is in life, viewing her journey as one that’s unfolding exactly as it’s supposed to.
Family and Net Worth
Though very little is publicly known about her family life, Close has credited her parents and mentors for shaping her into the leader she is today. She often refers to her family’s influence in instilling her competitive spirit and high standards.
As for finances, while her exact salary hasn’t been disclosed in recent updates, Cori Close’s estimated net worth is between $3 million and $5 million as of 2024. This includes her coaching salary, speaking engagements, bonuses tied to team performance, and leadership roles in various basketball organizations.
Her contract at UCLA has seen multiple extensions, reflecting the school’s long-term confidence in her leadership. With bonuses linked to NCAA Tournament appearances and conference titles, Close has built a career that’s not only impactful but also financially secure.
Leadership Beyond the Court
Close is more than a coach—she’s an educator, mentor, and role model for young women. She’s served in leadership roles within the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and often speaks on panels addressing equity in sports, leadership, and mental health.
Her teams are known for high academic standards and community involvement, both areas she champions as central to the program’s identity. Players who come through the UCLA program don’t just graduate with basketball experience—they leave with a well-rounded foundation for life.
What’s Next for Cori Close?
With UCLA continuing to be a top-tier program and the women’s game growing in national attention, Close’s stock as a coach is higher than ever. Whether it’s leading the Bruins to another deep NCAA Tournament run or mentoring the next generation of coaches, her impact on the sport continues to grow.
So, will Cori Close ever get married? Time will tell. But for now, she remains committed to shaping athletes, building championship teams, and walking her path with purpose. Whether or not a spouse enters the picture, one thing is clear—Cori Close is married to the game, and she’s exactly where she’s meant to be.
