Xavier Booker announces he will return to UCLA for the 2026 season

Xavier Booker announced on Wednesday afternoon that he will be returning to UCLA. Keeping another key piece that the Bruins had from last season. Booker was the leading shot blocker for the team and improved his 3-point shot tremendously. He went from 23.3% his sophomore year at Michigan State to 43.3% in his first year at UCLA. Showing the hard work paying off in his game as he helped UCLA be able to space the floor more.

Booker uses his athleticism on offense and defense. He is not a back to the basket type of center and never will be. He can screen and roll very well and showing he can be trusted to hit 3-point shots. When on defense, he plays very good at protecting the rim. He also has quick feet and can keep up with guards and forwards on switches. Being an important part to a zone or man-to-man defense.

Booker had a strong finish to the season as he had at least 12 points in his last three games. It was his return to the starting lineup after being moved to the bench. His presence was needed with Tyler Bilodeau being out due to injury. Against UCF in the round of 64 he had a great game with 15 points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Without his contributions UCLA probably doesn’t win that game.

The Bruins are starting to see their 2026 roster come together. With the returns of Booker, Eric Freeny and Brandon Williams locked in. They still await Eric Dailey Jr. and Trent Perry on if they will return. Then the NCAA decision on whether Skyy Clark will be another year of eligibility. Add in Joe Philon and Javonte Floyd as recruits and that now leaves four open scholarships for UCLA for transfers.