A Night to Remember: Juju Watkins

In a basketball spectacle that will be etched in history, freshman sensation Juju Watkins electrified the court, scoring a jaw-dropping 51 points to propel the No. 15 USC Trojans to a stunning 67-58 upset victory over No. 4 Stanford on February 2nd, 2024.

Lights on, game on:

Hailing from Los Angeles, Watkins was a force to be reckoned with right from the opening tip. The young star showcased her offensive prowess, sinking six three-pointers and fearlessly attacking the rim. Her performance nearly single-handedly outscored the entire Cardinal team, leaving spectators in awe.

Record-Breaking Brilliance:

Surpassing the previous record held by Cherie Nelson since 1989, JuJu Watkins achieved a 51-point masterpiece, breaking the USC single-game scoring record.This remarkable feat also marked the highest individual scoring output in NCAA women’s basketball for the season, putting Watkins in the spotlight on a national scale.

Beyond the Points:

Beyond the scoring frenzy, Watkins displayed her all-around excellence with 11 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 assists. Her impact went beyond the box score, influencing every aspect of the game. Clutch free throws in the final minute sealed the deal, handing Stanford its first home loss of the season.

Coach’s Praise:

USC head coach Lisa Boyer couldn’t contain her admiration, stating, “Juju was simply phenomenal tonight. She willed us to victory with her incredible scoring performance and leadership. This is a night she’ll never forget, putting the entire college basketball world on notice of her immense talent.”

Defensive Grit:

The Trojans’ gritty defensive effort complemented Watkins’ heroics, limiting Stanford to a season-low 58 points and forcing 22 turnovers. The win stands as a significant upset, thrusting USC into the national spotlight and potentially altering the Pac-12 conference race.

A Star in the Making:

With this breakout performance, Juju Watkins cements her status as one of the most exciting young stars in college basketball. Her impact extends beyond the court, inspiring a new generation of young athletes to dream big and chase their athletic aspirations. This marks just the beginning of a remarkable journey, and the college basketball world eagerly awaits her next chapter.