Though redshirting can be pretty upsetting, it is often a strategic move, which is exactly why one UCLA star has taken that route, amid the team's injury-riddled season.

Timea Gardiner announced her official redshirting decision for the season via an Instagram post on January 31. After months of speculation and constant sidelines, the Bruins Forward finally made up her mind.

“As many know, I have been sidelined this year due to fighting a knee injury”, the post said, “The recovery process has been longer than expected, therefore I have decided to medically redshirt this season. I will return for the 2026-27 season.”

Timea Gardiner had a major setback due to a nagging knee injury and missed multiple games this season. Despite that, the 6’3 Forward managed 7.6 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. Her standout performance was against LSU on March 31, 2025. She led her team to a 72-65 victory that night, scoring 15 points and 3 rebounds.

But now, she is finally prioritising her health. “This decision came down to me being 100% for my teammates, myself and my future”, she added.

However, this is not the first injury of Gardiner's career. Gardiner's freshman years were cut short due to blood clots in her lungs. She missed three months and played only 15 games.

A key player like Gardiner’s absence will affect the team, but this rest will assure a stronger comeback. But despite the injuries, the Bruins have been managing well this season.

Who Will Take Over for Gardiner Now That She’s Out?

Well, the Bruins did not let their games hit the bottom line. They are currently on a 20-1 streak, thanks to their scoring roster. Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice have been key players, averaging 16.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 15.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, respectively. Senior Guard Gabriela Jaquez is also averaging 14.8 ppg and 5.8 rpg.

The Bruins played Illinois for their last game and won 80-67. Betts scored 23 points, 9 rebounds, and Jaquez grabbed 11 points and 8 rebounds. Rice added 10 points and 6 rebounds as well. Their only loss of the season was a 76-65 against the Texas Longhorns. They’ll face Iowa next on February 2.

While Gardiner is recovering on the sidelines, the team got scorers to manage the winning streak. Her return will only strengthen the team’s already polished game in the next season. How do you think Gardiner’s performance will be in the next season? Let us know what you think in the comments!

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Written by

Deblina Roy

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi