Cori Close Family: All about the parents and siblings of the UCLA head coach

As Cori Close leads the UCLA Bruins women's basketball to one of the most successful eras in program history, much of her coaching philosophy can be traced back to her parents, Don and Patti Close.

Their influence-on and off the court-has helped shape not only Close's career, but also the culture she's built at UCLA.

Who was Cori Close's father, Don Close?

Cori Close's father, Don Close, played a foundational role in her development as both a coach and a person.

• Former college football player
• Longtime coach at Milpitas High School in California
• Teacher of health and psychology for more than 30 years

But beyond his résumé, Don's impact was deeply personal. Close has often spoken about how his approach to coaching emphasized values over victories.

Reflecting on his influence, she told USA Today:

"When I play up at Stanford every year, several people from my youth soccer team come. And they don't come because we won a lot of soccer games. They come because my dad had a program and not a team. My dad taught lessons and made them feel loved unconditionally.

That philosophy-prioritizing relationships and personal growth-has become a cornerstone of Close's coaching identity.

Don Close passed away in 2021 after battling vascular dementia, but his legacy continues to resonate within UCLA's program.

Who is Cori Close's mother, Patti Close?

Cori's mother, Patti Close, remains a constant and visible presence around the Bruins.

Known affectionately as "Mother Bruin," Patti has become an extension of the team itself.

• Regular attendee at UCLA games
• Travels with the team, including international trips
• Actively involved in recruiting and team culture

Her connection with the players is genuine and lasting. In an interview with the Associated Press, Patti shared:

"I never even had a passport. It's a dream. I love the kids. I always joke that I fall in love with them and they have the nerve to leave and graduate. How dare they.

Following Don's passing, her involvement deepened even further, becoming a source of strength for both her daughter and the program.

A family-driven coaching philosophy

Cori Close has two sisters, Amity Wicks and Adell Gillman, as per the UCLA website.

Cori Close's success-including a Final Four run and multiple Coach of the Year honors-reflects more than strategy and talent.

As UCLA continues its rise on the national stage, it's clear that behind one of college basketball's most respected coaches is a family whose influence goes far beyond the sidelines.

In many ways, the Bruins' culture is simply an extension of the Close household.