The USC Trojans secured a thrilling 72-70 victory over the UConn Huskies in Hartford, elevating themselves in the latest ESPN Power Rankings as college basketball teams prepare for the holiday break. JuJu Watkins starred for USC, scoring 25 points and putting forth a strong all-around performance alongside Kiki Iriafen, who contributed 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. This match concluded nonconference play for the Trojans on a positive note.
ESPN’s rankings this week highlight six undefeated teams, including UCLA, LSU, Maryland, Ohio State, Georgia Tech, and Tennessee. While these teams boast perfect records, the true test lies ahead as they transition to conference play, which often reveals the authenticity of contenders versus pretenders. UCLA, for example, boasts the highest strength of schedule at 26th, while LSU and others have previously faced easier nonconference slates.
Significantly, some teams, like Maryland and Tennessee, might face challenges as they enter the tougher half of their schedules. Maryland has several ranked opponents lined up soon, starting with a match against Texas in January, while Tennessee has also played strong teams including Iowa and Florida State.
In addition to USC’s win, notable performances across the board include Hannah Hidalgo’s season-high 33 points for Notre Dame and the Longhorns’ impressive 103-57 win over South Dakota State. The rankings have shifted, with the Lady Vols making a notable debut after their recent performances, including setting an NCAA record with 30 three-pointers in a game.
As the season progresses into 2024, the excitement builds to see which teams will emerge as legitimate threats for the Final Four. There is plenty of room for surprises, as teams iron out their strategies and adjust to the rigor of conference play.
This period not only marks a crucial juncture in the season but also serves as a hopeful reminder of how competitive college basketball can be, with each game offering a fresh opportunity to shine. With high-stakes matchups ahead, fans can anticipate an exhilarating second half of the season filled with potential upsets and breakout performances.