Gabe Lazo Leads UCF Into New Basketball Era

The new head coach looks to revitalize the Knights program as the 2026-27 season approaches.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball

Gabe Lazo Leads UCF Into New Basketball Era

Live Poll

Do you support a total roster overhaul when a new coach takes over your local team?

Head coach Gabe Lazo begins his first season leading the UCF women's basketball team following his hiring in April 2026. The program seeks to improve after finishing the 2025-26 season with an 11-19 record.

Why it matters

Lazo aims to establish a culture of accountability to help the team secure its first winning season since 2021-22. He is the first Hispanic coach to lead a Power Four program.

The revamped roster features seven transfer players and three freshmen alongside three returning student-athletes. Coach Gabe Lazo is 41 years old and has added Lynn Bria to the coaching staff.

The players

Gabe Lazo

He is the current head coach of the UCF women's basketball team and the first Hispanic coach to lead a Power Four program.

UCF

This university is the home of the Knights basketball program located in Orlando.

Lynn Bria

She is a member of the coaching staff brought on to assist with the team's development under Lazo.

The details

The coaching staff is focused on creating new habits, including a policy that prohibits walking during practice to maintain high intensity. The team is looking to integrate a significant number of newcomers after a challenging previous season.

The program last achieved a winning record during the 2021-22 season.
Gabe Lazo was hired as the head coach in April 2026.
The UCF women's basketball team opens its season against Florida A&M on November 3, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.

Season Trajectory

The program is attempting to break a multi-year trend of losing seasons to regain relevance within its conference. This roster overhaul positions the Knights to potentially climb the standings if the new chemistry clicks early in the year.

Fans should monitor how the new seven transfers and three freshmen adjust to the faster, no-walking practice intensity during early games. The starting rotation's efficiency will depend on integrating these new pieces alongside the three returning players.

The takeaway

Lazo is focused on long-term culture building through strict practice habits and roster expansion. Fans can expect a different playing style as the team integrates a large class of newcomers.