UCLA Bruins Enhance Athletic Roster with Strategic Transfers

Los Angeles, CA – The UCLA Bruins are actively reshaping their athletic roster for the upcoming 2025 season, with significant transfers in both football and basketball programs. Head coach DeShaun Foster’s football team has acquired 29 new transfers this offseason, earning a 20th-ranked transfer class as per 247Sports. This influx of talent aims to bolster both the offensive line and secondary in preparation for a competitive season ahead.

Among the highlighted football transfers is Courtland Ford, a left tackle with one year of eligibility remaining. Ford, a three-star recruit, is recognized as the 21st overall offensive tackle in the transfer portal. His addition is expected to strengthen the Bruins’ offensive line significantly. In addition, Cole Martin, a four-star prospect who previously played for Arizona State, joins the team after winning the Big 12 championship last season. Martin, also the son of UCLA’s secondary coach, adds a familial connection that could foster team cohesion. Another notable transfer is Robert Safford, who boasts three years of eligibility remaining. Rated as a four-star recruit out of high school, Safford is viewed as a promising pickup, with expectations for significant development during his time at UCLA.

The focus on enhancing the offensive line and secondary reflects the Bruins’ strategic intentions to improve their on-field performance. Coach Foster’s recruitment efforts indicate a commitment to building a robust team capable of competing at higher levels in college football.

Meanwhile, in men’s golf, UCLA has signed rising sophomore Logan Kim from Stanford. During his freshman year, Kim recorded an average score of 72.7 and secured a notable finish by tying for 13th at The Prestige Individual event. His impressive background is further highlighted by winning the 2024 Junior World Championship, adding depth to the Bruins’ golf program.

The women’s basketball program is also making significant changes, having secured the commitment of Gianna Kneepkens from Utah. Kneepkens averaged 19.3 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 50.4% last season. She also contributed five rebounds and three assists per game, playing a critical role in helping Utah return to the NCAA Tournament after a prolonged absence. Her scoring efficiency and experience will complement returning stars Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice, establishing a well-rounded squad as they look to make an impact in the upcoming season.

In addition to the football and women’s basketball updates, UCLA’s men’s basketball program has announced the addition of three incoming transfers. Xavier Booker, coming from Michigan State, carries two years of eligibility and averaged 4.7 points and 2.2 rebounds per game as a sophomore. Jamar Brown joins from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with one remaining year of eligibility, having shown impressive performance by averaging 16.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Lastly, Steven Jamerson II, transferring from the University of San Diego, also has one year left and averaged 10.0 points and 7.8 rebounds per game last season.

This series of strategic transfers across various sports highlights UCLA’s commitment to enhancing team competitiveness and performance as they prepare for the challenges of the 2025 season. With a focused approach to building strong athletic programs and fostering talent development, the Bruins aim to carve a successful path forward in collegiate athletics.