JuJu Watkins and the USC Trojans secured a significant 72-70 victory over Paige Bueckers and the UConn Huskies in Hartford, marking a successful conclusion to their nonconference play. Watkins showcased her talent by scoring 25 points, while teammate Kiki Iriafen contributed with a double-double of 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists.
As the holiday break approaches, the landscape of women’s college basketball features six teams maintaining perfect records: UCLA, LSU, Maryland, Ohio State, Georgia Tech, and Tennessee. Each of these teams has faced varying degrees of challenge in their nonconference schedules, and as they prepare for the intensity of league play, questions arise about their true strength.
UCLA leads among the unbeatens with the highest strength of schedule at 26th, while teams like LSU have benefited from a less challenging lineup but still earn respect due to their recent national championship title. Maryland and Tennessee, in particular, face scrutiny as they transition into a tougher series of games starting soon, showcasing their potential against ranked opponents.
Several teams are beginning to gather momentum as they prepare to enter the more competitive conference play. With standout performances increasing across the board, including noteworthy displays from players at Notre Dame, South Carolina, and Texas, the stage is set for exciting matchups in the coming weeks.
Looking ahead, teams like USC will face challenges but also have the chance to solidify their contender status. The Trojans and their peers will soon prove their mettle as the Final Four aspirations become more tangible during conference competition.
In summary, as the holiday season unfolds, the excitement of women’s college basketball heats up, providing opportunities for both established powerhouses and emerging teams to showcase their talents. The upcoming games promise thrilling action and potential surprises, as teams seek to establish themselves as true contenders in their conference and nationally.