UCLA's Lena Bilic to miss the entire 2026-2027 season with a torn ACL

The sophomore for defending champion UCLA Bruins, Lena Bilic, will miss the full 2026-2027 season due to a torn ACL injury, according to an announcement made on Sunday. Bilic was expected to assume a larger role as a sophomore, having played only 12.1 minutes per game in her freshman year. During her limited playing time, she demonstrated promising shooting skills.

She had been in a low usage role, tallying 3.0 points and 1.4 rebounds per game. The injury marks a significant setback for UCLA, as the team had already been dealing with the loss of Gianna Kneepkens, Gabriela Jaquez, and Angela Dugalic to the WNBA. With the senior class set to depart, the Bruins' depth will be further challenged.

Coach Cori Close expressed deep sorrow over Bilic's injury, emphasizing her importance to the team. She stated that the coaching staff will be there for Bilic throughout her recovery, promising to support her every step of the way.