Angela Dugalic: A Journey from Illinois to the Courts of Europe and UCLA

Angela Dugalic grew up in Des Plaines, Illinois, but her story reaches far beyond the suburbs. Born to Serbian parents who fled the turmoil of their homeland, she carries both U. S. and Serbian citizenship. In 2021, she helped Serbia win gold at EuroBasket, showing that her talent knows no borders. Now a key player for UCLA, she helped the Bruins capture a national title and earned the Big Ten Sixth Player of the Year award. Her family background is steeped in sports. Her mother excelled in handball for top Serbian clubs, while her father played soccer and trained in martial arts. These influences pushed Angela and her brother Milo to pursue professional careers; Milo now plays for the Bristol Flyers in England. The family’s move to America gave Angela access to U. S. high school and college basketball, but her Serbian roots remain strong—she practices the Orthodox faith taught by her parents.Angela’s high school career was remarkable. At Maine West, she helped the team go undefeated in 2019 and led the state with averages over 20 points and 10 rebounds. She earned national honors, including McDonald’s All-American and Gatorade Illinois Player of the Year. A five‑star recruit, she initially committed to Oregon before transferring to UCLA after one year, where her performance continued to rise. Statistically, she posted solid numbers: 9 points and 5. 4 rebounds per game in her senior year, shooting more than half from the field. Her versatility on defense and offensive efficiency make her a valuable asset for professional teams. Draft projections place her between the top 10 and top 25, with franchises like Portland and Toronto showing interest. In short, Angela Dugalic blends a multicultural upbringing, family athletic tradition, and impressive on‑court skill to carve out an international basketball career that bridges two continents.