UCLA's basketball strategy in the transfer portal seems to be specific and opportunistic. They seem to be focused on filling specific needs while maintaining a high recruiting standard.
- Address needs: The Bruins look to address weaknesses in their roster through the portal. There appears to be a focus on adding a big man to help boost their front line to help Adem Bona assuming he returns to Westwood and forgoes the 2024 NBA draft, and looking for a third and possibly fourth target that has experience and fits within Cronin's system.
- Academic standards: UCLA prioritizes players who can succeed academically alongside their athletic careers as UCLA as it is the No. 1 ranked public national university according to World News & World Report. There are student-athletes in the portal that they are focusing on that meet their academic standards.
- Not a primary focus: While they utilize the portal, it doesn't seem to be the main source of talent acquisition for their program. Strong recruiting classes are still a priority overall, even though they only have one incoming true freshman for next season. Remember, last season they brought in seven true freshmen for their 2023 recruiting class.