Reinforcing the Roster: UCLA's Smart Play in the Transfer Portal
UCLA's Post-Draft Strategy: Securing New Talent
After witnessing six of her athletes being selected in the recent WNBA Draft, UCLA's head coach, Cori Close, acted swiftly to address the team's evolving roster. The program successfully recruited Donovyn Hunter, a skilled guard previously with TCU, whose prior experience on the West Coast is a significant asset to the Bruins.
Hunter's Collegiate Journey and Pac-12 Roots
Hunter's basketball career began in the Pac-12 Conference, where she played for the Oregon State Beavers. Hailing from Medford, Oregon, she spent one season with the Beavers before transferring to TCU, where she competed for the subsequent two seasons under coach Mark Campbell.
Familiar Foes: Hunter's History Against Future Teammates
Intriguingly, all six of UCLA's 2026 WNBA draft picks had previously faced Hunter during their time in the old Pac-12 conference. Notably, UCLA forward Timea Gardiner was a teammate of Hunter's during the 2023-2024 season at Oregon State, a season that saw their team achieve a 27-8 record and defeat the Bruins in February 2024.
Hunter's Impactful Career Statistics
Throughout her college career, Hunter has maintained solid averages of 7.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Her most recent season with TCU was particularly impressive, as she averaged a career-high 10.2 points, contributing significantly to the team's journey to the Elite Eight.
A Proven Starter and Essential Size Addition
While Hunter's scoring figures may not be exceptionally high, her consistent role as a starter since her freshman year—having started 93 out of 111 career games—speaks volumes about her reliability and leadership. Standing at 6'0", Hunter provides much-needed size and physicality to the UCLA lineup, especially after the graduation of several taller senior players.
Filling the Void: New Transfers in the Backcourt
Hunter joins fellow transfer recruits Bonnie Deas and Elina Aarnisalo in bolstering the Bruins' backcourt. These additions are crucial in compensating for the departures of key players like Charlisse Leger-Walker, Kiki Rice, Gianna Kneepkens, and Gabriela Jaquez, all of whom have moved on to the WNBA.
Maintaining Championship Caliber: UCLA's Forward-Looking Approach
Despite the significant roster changes, the reigning national champions, UCLA, are demonstrating a proactive approach. By strategically acquiring experienced guards through the transfer portal, the team aims to maintain a high level of performance and strengthen their foundation for the 2026-2027 seaso
