A Battle of the Titans: UCLA vs. USC Women’s Basketball
For years, the UCLA-USC women’s basketball rivalry has captivated fans and pundits alike, but this year’s matchup carries unprecedented stakes. UCLA, currently unbeaten and ranked No. 1 in the nation, is led by National Player of the Year favorite Lauren Betts. On the other side, USC boasts a formidable 21-2 record and a dominant 11-1 in Big Ten play, despite the continuous spotlight on their star, JuJu Watkins. The rivalry takes center stage on Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET at the Galen Center, where the two powerhouse programs will engage in a local battle with national implications. "What a cool thing to have earned the right to have all basketball eyes on Southern California," UCLA coach Cori Close said, encapsulating the excitement and significance of the event.
The Spotlight on JuJu Watkins
JuJu Watkins, USC’s superstar guard, has been the focal point of the Trojans’ season, attracting significant attention and media coverage. However, over the past six games, Watkins has struggled with her shooting, hitting just 33% from the field and 22.9% from 3-point range. Despite these difficulties, she still averages 19.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. "We’re nowhere without her, and all the elite talents that she has," USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb emphasized. For USC to stand a chance against UCLA’s formidable defense, which allows just 54.7 points per game, Watkins must find her rhythm and regain her efficiency. The game against the Bruins presents a critical test for Watkins to overcome her recent slump and deliver a standout performance.
Lauren Betts: The Unsung Hero
While Watkins has garnered most of the attention, Lauren Betts has quietly led UCLA to 22 consecutive double-digit victories. Betts, a 6-foot-7 forward, is averaging 19.6 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, making her a dominant force on both ends of the court. This game offers Betts an opportunity to shine on a national stage and introduce herself to a broader audience. "I’m so glad I don’t have to guard her," UCLA’s Gabriela Jaquez remarked, highlighting Betts’ defensive prowess. The challenge for Betts will be to overcome the familiarity of her former Stanford teammate, USC’s Kiki Iriafen, who will likely be tasked with defending her. Betts’ ability to dominate in this high-stakes game could significantly boost her National Player of the Year candidacy and further solidify UCLA’s position as the top team in the nation.
The National Player of the Year Race
The outcome of this game could have a profound impact on the National Player of the Year award, with both Betts and Watkins among the top contenders. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Betts is the favorite at +110, while Watkins is close behind at +220. "There are great players out there — I’m obviously biased — but I really do believe she’s been the most consistently impactful player on both sides of the ball," Close said of Betts. Betts’ leadership and performance have been crucial to UCLA’s success, and a strong showing against USC could solidify her lead. Conversely, a stellar performance from Watkins and a USC win could shift the momentum in her favor. The battle between these two stars will be a key highlight of the game and could influence the award’s outcome.
Defense vs. Offense: The Ultimate Showdown
The clash between UCLA’s top-ranked defense and USC’s potent offense sets the stage for an intense battle. UCLA leads the Big Ten in scoring defense, holding opponents to just 54.7 points per game. The Bruins’ defensive strategy revolves around their disruptive perimeter defenders, who funnel drives to Betts, a formidable rim-protector. On the other hand, USC’s offense is the conference’s highest-scoring, averaging 83.2 points per game. The Trojans’ free-wheeling, pro-style offense is anchored by pick-and-rolls, drive-and-kicks, and Watkins’ overall brilliance. "We know there will be a lot of pride on the line," Gottlieb said. The game will test both teams’ strengths, and ultimately, one will have to give way. The key will be which team can execute their game plan most effectively and adapt to the other’s strategies.
A Renewed Southern California Rivalry
The UCLA-USC matchup is more than just a game; it represents the re-emergence of women’s college basketball in Southern California. Both teams have been at the forefront of the sport this season, with Los Angeles becoming a hub for top-tier talent. Coaches Close and Gottlieb have recognized the importance of this rivalry and have collaborated on various projects to increase the visibility of women’s basketball. "I think it’s great for the community," Jaquez said about the attention the game is receiving. The national audience at this crucial game will not only highlight the talents of the players but also contribute to the growth and popularity of women’s basketball in the region. As the two teams prepare for their showdown, the excitement and anticipation are palpable, signaling the beginning of a renewed and exciting rivalry in Southern California.
