JuJu Watkins lifted sixth-ranked USC to a program-defining win over No. 1 UCLA, scoring 38 points in a decisive 71-60 victory. This performance not only marked a significant personal achievement for Watkins but also aligned with her ambition to rejuvenate the Trojans’ storied basketball legacy.
The atmosphere was electric as legends from the early 1980s, including Hall of Famers Cheryl Miller and Tina Thompson, witnessed USC’s first triumph against a top-ranked opponent since 1983. The raucous crowd cheered passionately, underscoring the historic significance of the night.
“Gonna be one of those nights,” DJ Mal-Ski confidently announced to the sold-out audience of 10,258 during pregame warmups, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
And it certainly lived up to that promise.
After her sister Mali delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem, Watkins quickly ignited the game with eight points in just five minutes, placing the Bruins in an early deficit.
“JuJu got hot off the bounce and she got in a rhythm,” remarked UCLA coach Cori Close, highlighting Watkins’ impressive offensive flow.
Watkins single-handedly accounted for all of USC’s points in the second quarter, despite the team being outscored 20-14. A crucial 3-pointer from her halted the Bruins’ 10-0 run, allowing the Trojans to maintain a narrow 38-35 lead at halftime.
This performance was her second-highest scoring game of the season, just shy of her 40-point outing against California Baptist on December 3.
“I wear #12 to be like JuJu,” read a sign held high by an enthusiastic young fan, while Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers proudly donned a JuJu T-shirt.
The predominantly cardinal-clad crowd, diverse in age, gender, and background, reflected the broad appeal of Watkins, who enjoys unwavering support from her local Watts community.
Prior to this game, Watkins struggled with her shooting, going 12-of-45 in her last two home games and only 4-of-25 from beyond the arc. However, she turned things around spectacularly, hitting 6-of-9 three-pointers and 8-of-10 free throws, along with securing 11 rebounds, blocking eight shots, and providing five assists.
“She takes pride on both sides of the ball,” Coach Close acknowledged, emphasizing Watkins’ all-around contributions.
The crowd included notable personalities such as actors Kevin Hart and Issa Rae, NFL rookie of the year Jayden Daniels, and WNBA stars Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby, alongside Vanessa Bryant and her daughter Natalia, all adding to the star-studded atmosphere.
