UCLA’s Commitment to “We Over Me” in NCAA Tournament
In the competitive world of college basketball, where individual talent often takes center stage, the UCLA Bruins are embracing a unique philosophy that sets them apart. As one of the top-seeded teams in the NCAA tournament, UCLA is not just playing for themselves, but for the collective “we” that defines their team spirit.
The distinctive warmup shirt worn by all Nike-sponsored schools in the tournament bears the motto “Nothing Easy” on the front, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. But it is what adorns the back of UCLA’s shirt that truly captures their ethos: “We” above a horizontal bar, followed by “me.” This visual representation of “we over me” encapsulates the team’s commitment to unity and selflessness.
Coach Cori Close, the driving force behind UCLA’s success, emphasizes the importance of playing for the name on the front of the jersey rather than individual glory. In a sport where personal accolades often overshadow team achievements, Close’s focus on collective effort has propelled the Bruins to new heights.
Selflessness has long been a cornerstone of UCLA’s program, but it was a wake-up call from graduate student Charlisse Leger-Walker that reignited the team’s commitment to “we over me.” Following a defeat to USC, Leger-Walker reminded her teammates of the power of unity, prompting a renewed sense of purpose.
This renewed focus on teamwork proved to be a game-changer for UCLA, as they clinched their first conference tournament title in over a decade. The “we over me” symbol added to their shirts for the NCAA tournament serves as a constant reminder of their shared goal.
For players like Angela Dugalic, a former five-star recruit with an impressive pedigree, buying into UCLA’s team-first mentality is both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. With a roster brimming with talent and high expectations, finding players who prioritize collective success over personal gain is crucial.
When forward Janiah Barker joined UCLA from Texas A&M, her decision to embrace the team’s ethos of “we over me” was a testament to her character. Despite her previous success as a starter, Barker saw an opportunity to contribute in a new role, bringing energy and physicality to the Bruins’ lineup.
As UCLA gears up to face Richmond in the second round of the NCAA tournament, their commitment to unity and selflessness continues to set them apart. In a sport driven by individual achievement, the Bruins’ emphasis on collective success is a refreshing reminder of the power of teamwork.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on UCLA and their unwavering dedication to “we over me.” In a season marked by highs and lows, the Bruins’ resilience and unity have been their greatest strengths. As they strive to reach new heights and make their mark on college basketball history, one thing is clear: for UCLA, the “we” will always come before the “me.”
