In a thrilling women’s basketball matchup, the USC Trojans, led by standout JuJu Watkins, overcame the UConn Huskies 72-70 at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. This victory marked a significant moment for USC, allowing them to avenge an earlier defeat to UConn in last season’s NCAA tournament, where UConn had advanced to the Final Four.
With nearly 16,000 fans in attendance, the game was highly anticipated, showcasing two of the sport’s biggest talents: Watkins and UConn’s Paige Bueckers. The Trojans initially dominated the contest, building a lead as substantial as 18 points before UConn mounted a remarkable comeback that briefly put them in the lead during the fourth quarter. However, Watkins, who scored 25 points—15 of which came in the first half—played a crucial role in securing the win for USC, ultimately assisting Rayah Marshall for the decisive basket with just over a minute remaining.
Watkins’ performance was historical; she became the only player over the last 15 seasons to achieve a 25-5-5-3 stat line against a top-five opponent on the road. This victory not only reflects Watkins’ individual talent but also points to the resurgence of the USC program under Coach Lindsay Gottlieb, particularly during their pursuit of returning to the NCAA tournament’s pinnacle.
USC’s defense proved effective, with the team showcasing their shooting skills, sinking 9 of 16 attempts from beyond the arc. Freshman Kennedy Smith’s return added depth to the team, further enhancing their performance. Conversely, UConn’s famous resilience showed as they rallied after a lackluster first half—but it wasn’t enough to overcome USC’s lead.
UConn’s coach, Geno Auriemma, expressed pride in his team’s second-half effort while acknowledging their poor execution in the early phases of the game. The match ended dramatically, with the Huskies unable to convert crucial free throws in the final seconds that could have tied the game.
This victory positions the Trojans favorably as they aim for continued success this season, showcasing their growth and determination. The intense atmosphere and performance of both teams delighted fans and served as a reminder of the bright future for women’s basketball, emphasizing that when given the chance, female athletes can exemplify the highest level of competition and sportsmanship.
Overall, the game was a testament to hard work, teamwork, and the exciting trajectory of women’s college basketball. The players and coaches are hopeful that performances like this will continue to elevate the game and inspire young athletes everywhere.