USC’s JuJu Watkins is genuinely excited to face UConn’s Paige Bueckers in a highly anticipated matchup on Saturday night. The clash between No. 4 UConn and No. 7 USC is set to take place at 8 p.m. ET on FOX in a sold-out XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. This game symbolizes the growing prominence of women’s college basketball.
This showdown features two elite teams, exceptional coaches, and standout players who are ready to shine.
The spotlight will be on Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins.
This game marks a rematch of last year’s Elite Eight encounter, where the Huskies triumphed over the top-seeded Trojans to secure a spot in the Final Four. In that thrilling contest, Watkins scored a game-high 29 points, while Bueckers contributed with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.
Kicking off a home-and-home series between these prestigious programs was a straightforward decision for Hall of Famer Geno Auriemma and USC’s head coach Lindsay Gottlieb. With a return game scheduled for next season in Los Angeles, the atmosphere in Hartford promises to be electric.
Both teams have started the season strong with 10–1 records. Bueckers, now in her fifth season, is averaging 20.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists while boasting impressive shooting percentages of 58% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc. The pivotal question for the Huskies is how much support Bueckers will receive. Auriemma hinted that senior Azzi Fudd, who has been sidelined for three games due to a minor knee sprain, might return to action, which would significantly enhance UConn’s chances.
On the other hand, Watkins, who set the NCAA freshman scoring record with 920 points last year and earned National Freshman of the Year honors, has seen her scoring average dip slightly this season. However, her efficiency has improved, as she is currently averaging 24.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting 45% from the field and 34% from three-point range.
Watkins benefits from playing alongside fellow star Kiki Iriafen, a Stanford transfer who is averaging 18.7 points and 9.2 rebounds per game with shooting percentages of 54% from the field and 40% from three. While the matchup between Watkins and Bueckers is the main attraction, the duel between Iriafen and UConn’s freshman standout Sarah Strong (17.3 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 3.6 APG) could be equally important in determining the game’s outcome.
Ahead of this top-10 clash, FOX Sports had the opportunity to speak with Watkins.
How excited are you about playing in primetime on Saturday night in a sold-out building against Paige Bueckers and UConn?
“I’m so stoked. To get a top-10 matchup is always a great opportunity. This is our chance to showcase the progress we’ve made since the beginning of the season, and we know it’s going to be an exciting game.”
How much does last year’s Elite Eight loss to UConn drive you and your team, and what’s your mindset entering this game?
“I would say we’re a completely different team from last year. While it hasn’t been our main motivator, for me and some of the returning players, it’s personal. They ended our season last year, so we’re definitely motivated to play hard.”
You have a global reach with your stardom on and off the floor, and what we are watching right now in women’s sports is truly a movement. What does it mean to be a shining light to young girls who look up to you?
“It’s such a great thing, and I’m so blessed to be in this position. I can’t fully grasp that I am a role model for young women. I’m always grateful for the platform I have, and I aim to inspire others to embrace their true selves.”
How special of a time is it to be in women’s basketball?
“It’s an incredible time. Statistics show that women’s sports are gaining more attention than ever. I’m thrilled to be part of this movement, and I also want to honor the women who paved the way for us, making our sport what it is today.”
What is this USC team’s identity and in what ways have you evolved the most as a player?
“It’s hard to define in one word, but I would say everyone on our team is very capable. Now, we need to come together and understand each other’s strengths to improve collectively. Ultimately, we all share the same goal: to win at USC.”
How would you define Coach Gottlieb?
“Intelligent. She’s incredibly smart and has been a wonderful mentor to me both on and off the court. Having her in my life is a blessing.”
Your favorite Christmas song?
“Last Christmas by WHAM! That’s my favorite one.”
