Meet the Newcomers: Q&A with Gracie Gallegos
August 14, 2026 | Women's Basketball
#7 Gracie Gallegos
Year: Senior
Height: 6-1
Position: Guard
Hometown: Denver, Colo.
Previous School: UC San Diego
High School: Mullen HS
Major: Master in Managament
Gracie Gallegos is a graduate transfer from UC San Diego, where she spent the last four years. The 6-foot-1 guard did not play last season due to an injury, but was a key member of the Tritons' 2025 Big West Championship squad. She was named to the Big West Championship All-Tournament Team and also garnered all-conference honorable mention recognition.
How did you get started playing basketball?
I started playing basketball through my Catholic school league. Then I joined a club team in sixth grade and continued from there.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level?
I wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level when I started playing EYBL. I found out more about the opportunities in women's basketball and was super excited to be able to play in college.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your basketball career?
The biggest inspiration would be Ervin Johnson, who was my AAU coach in middle school. He taught me the fundamentals of basketball and gave me the love for the game.
How would you describe your playing style to fans who have never seen you play before?
I would say that I let the game come to me. I love playing defense, being aggressive on defense, playing fast, and running the court.
Why did you choose UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine because in addition to the amazing basketball program, it's also a great academic school. I'm looking forward to being able to get my master's degree and build relationships with my teammates and coaches.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm looking forward to winning and working with my teammates. I'm excited; I love the team so far and I think we'll be really great this season.
What is your favorite thing about Irvine so far?
My favorite thing about Irvine is how everything is within 10 or 15 minutes. Also, the food is amazing out here. I definitely have a list [of restaurants] that I need to go through.
Year: Senior
Height: 6-1
Position: Guard
Hometown: Denver, Colo.
Previous School: UC San Diego
High School: Mullen HS
Major: Master in Managament
Gracie Gallegos is a graduate transfer from UC San Diego, where she spent the last four years. The 6-foot-1 guard did not play last season due to an injury, but was a key member of the Tritons' 2025 Big West Championship squad. She was named to the Big West Championship All-Tournament Team and also garnered all-conference honorable mention recognition.
How did you get started playing basketball?
I started playing basketball through my Catholic school league. Then I joined a club team in sixth grade and continued from there.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level?
I wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level when I started playing EYBL. I found out more about the opportunities in women's basketball and was super excited to be able to play in college.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your basketball career?
The biggest inspiration would be Ervin Johnson, who was my AAU coach in middle school. He taught me the fundamentals of basketball and gave me the love for the game.
How would you describe your playing style to fans who have never seen you play before?
I would say that I let the game come to me. I love playing defense, being aggressive on defense, playing fast, and running the court.
Why did you choose UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine because in addition to the amazing basketball program, it's also a great academic school. I'm looking forward to being able to get my master's degree and build relationships with my teammates and coaches.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm looking forward to winning and working with my teammates. I'm excited; I love the team so far and I think we'll be really great this season.
What is your favorite thing about Irvine so far?
My favorite thing about Irvine is how everything is within 10 or 15 minutes. Also, the food is amazing out here. I definitely have a list [of restaurants] that I need to go through.
Players Mentioned
Guard
/ Women's BasketballFriday, August 14
Tuesday, August 11
Friday, August 07
Tuesday, August 04
