Trojan Triumphs and Challenges Ahead
Last season, Southern California star JuJu Watkins led the Trojans to a Big Ten regular-season championship and secured their place in the Elite Eight for the second year in a row. However, the Trojans will need to find a way to replicate that success this season without her.
Impact of Watkins’ Absence
Watkins, currently sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury sustained during the NCAA Tournament, has left UCLA as the primary contender in the conference, with Maryland not trailing far behind.
UCLA’s Rising Status
The Bruins made history by reaching the Final Four for the first time after defeating the Trojans in the Big Ten tournament final last season. With senior center Lauren Betts named the Big Ten’s preseason player of the year, UCLA emerges as the clear favorite this year.
Conference Reaction to Watkins’ Injury
The loss of Watkins resonates throughout the conference, which saw a record 12 teams participate in last season’s NCAA Tournament. UCLA coach Cori Close expressed her disappointment, emphasizing that Watkins elevates the level of competition. “Her excellence makes me a better coach,” Close noted.
Maryland’s Competitive Edge
Maryland is positioned as a strong competitor alongside UCLA, following a Sweet 16 run last season and retaining key players like Kaylene Smikle, Saylor Poffenbarger, and transfer Yarden Garzon. Coach Brenda Frese stated that her team aims to perform their best against the elite competition in the conference.
Southern California’s Future
Despite the challenges, Southern California’s coach Lindsay Gottlieb insists the Trojans cannot be overlooked. While acknowledging that no player can replace Watkins, she believes her team possesses exceptional versatility and talent. Freshman Jazzy Davidson, viewed as the top high school player in the nation, is expected to make a significant impact this season.
Looking Ahead
Gottlieb remains focused on her ambitions of establishing the Trojans as a premier program in women’s college basketball. “Our objectives remain steadfast. USC women’s basketball is here to stay,” she affirmed as the team prepares for a new and exciting season.
