Elina Aarnisalo returns to UCLA women's basketball after one season at North Carolina
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 18, 2026, 1:51 PM
Last updated Jul 18, 2026
Elina Aarnisalo has transferred back to UCLA women’s basketball after one season with North Carolina. The Finnish guard was part of the Bruins' Final Four team in 2025 but left due to limited playing time after the roster's strong freshman class. Aarnisalo stated her decision to return was influenced by openings in the lineup created by the WNBA draft and her desire to contribute to the team’s high standards. She averaged 10.2 points and helped North Carolina reach the Sweet 16 in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
- •Aarnisalo averaged 5.1 points as a freshman at UCLA.
- •She started 26 games and averaged 10.2 points at North Carolina.
- •UCLA won the NCAA title after Aarnisalo's first season.
- •Aarnisalo noted increased opportunities due to roster changes.
- •She returns to help build a new identity for UCLA.
- 1:51 PMYahoo Sports — Elina Aarnisalo Explains Why She Transferred Back to UCLA WBB
"After spending a season away from UCLA, Elina Aarnisalo is back in Westwood. The Finnish guard made her collegiate debut with UCLA women’s basketball during the 2024-25 season and helped the Bruins reach the Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. She started in 10 games as a true freshman and averaged 5.1 points, 3.4 […] The post Elina Aarnisalo Explains Why She Transferred Back to UCLA WBB appeared first on LA Sports Report.
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