The poll results are in: Here’s a closer look at No. 21 UCLA.
21. UCLA
2025-26 record: 24-12
Outlook for 2026-27: The Bruins reached the 2021 Final Four in coach Mick Cronin’s second season, then lost two years in a row in the Sweet 16 and have not advanced that far since. UCLA would like to make a deeper run this season but will likely need five-star freshman Nikola Kusturica to experience immediate stardom.
What we like: Trent Perry and Eric Dailey Jr. are experienced double-digit scorers and big man Xavier Booker brings the defense. Texas Tech transfer Jaylen Petty (69 3s last season) can stretch defenses with his range.
Trouble ahead: The Bruins have a built-for-success nonconference slate, with the opener against Arizona and an early December matchup against Gonzaga representing the only games against ranked foes. Departed point guard Donovan Dent’s court savvy will be tough to replace.
Top newcomer: Kusturica is a top-flight shooter projected to be a high NBA draft pick whenever he leaves college. The 6-foot-9 Serbian opened eyes with a 37-point effort against the victorious United States in the gold-medal game of the FIBA Under-17 World Cup in July.
