The champs are here! UCLA women’s basketball team honored at Lakers-Thunder game
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The champs are here! UCLA women’s basketball team honored at Lakers-Thunder game
An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows UCLA Bruins head coach Cori Close cuts down the net after winning the NCAA Tournament National Championship, Image 2 shows UCLA Bruins head coach Cori Close raises the NCAA National Championship trophy with her team, Image 3 shows UCLA Bruins guard Charlisse Leger-Walker raises the championship trophy above her head as confetti falls around her and her teammates celebrate
Just two nights removed from a79–51 title-clinching winover the South Carolina Gamecocks in the NCAA national championship in Phoenix, the Bruins were introduced at halfcourt.
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Head coach Cori Close stood off to the left, with stars Lauren Betts, Sienna Betts, Gabriela Jaquez, Kiki Rice, and the rest of the team holding up their national championship trophy and waving at fans.
UCLA women's basketball team is honored at halfcourt during the Thunder's 123-87 blowout win over the Lakers on April 7, 2026 in Los Angeles. NBAE via Getty Images
The women of Westwood got the loudest ovation by far, especially considering it was another blowout for the purple and gold at the hands of OKC.
Even some of the celebrities sitting courtside took notice. Academy Award nominee for best actress, Kate Hudson, sat courtside and greeted the players, giving them her congratulations on their impressive performance.
The same could not be said for the Lakers. Playing withoutLeBron James,Luka DoncicandAustin Reavesthe team didn't put up much of a fight against the reigning NBA champions.
