The Night of Triumph
JuJu Watkins broke free from a scoring slump with an exceptional 38-point performance, leading sixth-ranked USC to a historic 71-60 victory over the top-ranked UCLA Bruins on Thursday night. The win was a momentous occasion, marking the Trojans’ first victory over a top-ranked team since 1983, a year when the program was at the pinnacle of its glory. The soldout crowd of 10,258, including Hall of Famers Cheryl Miller and Tina Thompson, added a festival-like atmosphere to the sold-out Galen Center. DJ Mal-Ski’s pregame announcement, "Gonna be one of those nights," seemed prophetic as the game unfolded, with Watkins setting the tone early on.
First Quarter Flurry
The game began with Watkins’ sister, Mali, delivering a stirring rendition of the national anthem. JuJu, fueled by familial pride and the electric atmosphere, scored eight points in just five minutes, putting the Bruins in an early hole. This initial flurry not only energized the crowd but also gave the Trojans a solid lead that they would fight to maintain throughout the game. Watkins’ quick start was a testament to her mental toughness and ability to rise to the occasion, especially in a high-stakes environment.
Second Quarter Dominance
In the second quarter, Watkins continued to shine, single-handedly scoring all of USC’s points. Despite being outscored 20-14 in this period, her contributions kept the Trojans in the game. When UCLA went on a 10-0 run, Watkins silenced the Bruins with a critical 3-pointer, ensuring that USC maintained a 38-35 lead at halftime. This moment was particularly significant as it demonstrated Watkins’ leadership and her ability to stay composed under pressure. Her performance in the second quarter was a crucial turning point, setting the stage for the Trojans’ eventual victory.
A Comeback to Remember
Watkins’ second-highest scoring game of the season, just two points shy of her 40-point effort against California Baptist on December 3, was a remarkable comeback. She came into the game struggling, having shot just 12-of-45 from the floor and 4-of-25 from 3-point range in her last two home games. However, she managed to hit 6-of-9 3-pointers and 8-of-10 free throws in this pivotal match, along with grabbing 11 rebounds, recording eight blocks, and dishing out five assists. Her versatility and determination were evident, and they played a crucial role in USC’s win. UCLA coach Cori Close praised Watkins’ effort, noting that she "takes pride on both sides of the ball."
The Community’s Pride
The crowd at the Galen Center was a diverse and enthusiastic mix of supporters, reflecting the strong community backing Watkins enjoys. A young fan held a sign that read, "I wear #12 to be like JuJu," highlighting the inspirational impact she has on the next generation of basketball players. The presence of celebrities like actors Kevin Hart and Issa Rae, NFL rookie of the year Jayden Daniels, and former players Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby, only added to the excitement. Notably, Vanessa Bryant and her daughter Natalia were also in attendance, further emphasizing the broad appeal and significance of Watkins’ performance.
A New Era for USC Women’s Basketball
Watkins’ standout performance is a reflection of her broader goal to restore USC women’s basketball to its former glory. The Trojans’ victory over the Bruins, a historic rival, is a step in the right direction and a sign of the program’s resurgence. With her exceptional play both offensively and defensively, Watkins is not only making a name for herself but also inspiring her teammates and fans. The night’s success was a collective effort, but Watkins’ contributions were undoubtedly the cornerstone, proving that she is a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball.
