In a thrilling rematch, USC’s JuJu Watkins led her team to a narrow 72-70 victory over UConn in Hartford, avenging last year’s loss during the NCAA tournament. The highly anticipated game saw nearly 16,000 fans gathered to witness the clash between two top women’s basketball programs, with USC ranked seventh and UConn fourth.
From the outset, the Trojans dominated the first half, building a lead as large as 18 points early in the third quarter. However, UConn mounted a fierce comeback, taking a temporary lead in the fourth quarter. The final minutes were tense, as neither team could pull ahead by more than three points. In the critical last moments, Watkins set up Rayah Marshall for a decisive basket with just over a minute left, securing USC’s first prominent win of the season.
Watkins showcased her extraordinary talent, finishing the game with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks. This performance made her the only player in the last 15 seasons to achieve a 25-5-5-3 stat line against a top-five opponent on the road. Her remarkable skill on the court has been pivotal in revitalizing the USC program, which previously won national titles in 1983 and 1984.
Coach Lindsay Gottlieb hailed the significance of the win against UConn, acknowledging the program’s storied history under Coach Geno Auriemma. Despite UConn’s recent struggles in securing championships, Gottlieb emphasized the value of competing against such a prestigious team, stating it helps improve her program.
USC has shown resilience this season, with only one loss against Notre Dame. The players’ experience in high-stakes games has strengthened their bond and determination. This victory could signal an optimistic turning point for the Trojans as they aim for reacquiring dominance in women’s basketball.
On the UConn side, freshman Sarah Strong performed admirably, tallying 22 points and contributing crucial moments in the game’s closing seconds. Despite the heartbreak of a missed free throw that could have tied the game, Auriemma remains confident in Strong’s capabilities and potential.
This match exemplified the growing excitement and competitive spirit in women’s college basketball, offering hope for an even brighter future for both programs. As USC continues its upward trajectory and UConn seeks to regain its historic dominance, fans can look forward to what promises to be an electrifying season ahead.