As March Madness approaches, the excitement surrounding the USC women's basketball team is palpable, largely thanks to their star player, JuJu Watkins. Two years into her collegiate career, Watkins aims for a national title while simultaneously pursuing individual records that would place her in the history books.
Coming into this year's NCAA tournament, Watkins is just 79 points shy of eclipsing Kelsey Mitchell’s two-year scoring record of 1,762 points. As of March 20, 2025, she has tallied 1,662 points, averaging an impressive 24.6 points per game this season. Statistics like these have basketball fans giddy at the prospect of watching the sophomore guard take the court in the NCAA tournament.
In particular, USC's journey this season has been filled with standout moments, including three significant games against top-seeded UCLA, in which she scored 38, 30, and 29 points, respectively. Such performances have positioned her team not only for a successful tournament but also for potential historical achievements. However, USC has faced its share of challenges, most notably being labeled the lowest of the No. 1 seeds despite their stellar performance, including significant victories over rival UCLA.
According to odds listed on BUSR.ag, as of March 20, the Trojans hold the fifth-best odds to win the NCAA Championship, sitting at +800. This is surprising given that they are categorized as a No. 1 seed and have beaten teams above them in seeding. South Carolina leads at +222, followed by UCONN (+248) and UCLA (+600). The implications of their low odds have sparked discussions among fans eager to see USC prove its doubters wrong.
In an interview with NBC's Natalie Esquire, Watkins shared her perspective on the accolades that come with her achievements. "I always have pride in anything that I do and get noticed for. I don't take that for granted... When it comes to sports, I think the main goal is winning, and everything else will follow. That's something that I really believe in," she said. This statement encapsulates not only her drive but also her devotion to her team, showing that her focus remains on collective success rather than personal milestones.
As they gear up for the first game of March Madness against UNC Greensboro on March 22nd at Noon PT, the Trojans’ history of improved attendance speaks volumes about their growing popularity. In the 2024-25 season, average attendance surged to 5,932 spectators per game, a significant increase from the prior season's 1,037. The influx of fans reflects the heightened interest in both Watkins and the USC program overall, drawing in local celebrities and former athletes to support the team.
Moreover, as the game against UNC Greensboro approaches, the Trojans prepare to showcase their potential in what promises to be an exciting tournament. Juice Watkins’ aspirations to lead her team to glory and break records are coupled with the anticipation of an enthusiastic fan base that believes in their chances. March Madness offers the USC Trojans a chance not only to compete at the highest level but to prove their naysayers wrong and carve a significant place for themselves in women's collegiate basketball history.
With all eyes on the USC women's basketball team and their remarkable star, the upcoming tournament is sure to deliver thrilling moments that will define their season and their future. As NCAA fans ready themselves for the excitement ahead, it is undoubtedly a time to support the Trojans and witness the historical rise of JuJu Watkins, a player who is ready to leave her mark on the game.
