JuJu Watkins, the phenomenal sophomore guard for the University of Southern California's women's basketball team, recently etched her name in history by surpassing USC legend Pam McGee in the all-time scoring list. In a thrilling first-round match of the NCAA tournament, Watkins scored 22 points, leading her team to a commanding 71-25 victory over the University of North Carolina Greensboro on March 22, 2025. With this achievement, she now holds the sixth position on USC's all-time scoring list, boasting a total of 1,706 points.
Watkins not only excelled in scoring but also faced significant adversity during the game. After appearing to injure her left hand early in the second quarter, she continued to play through the pain. Adding to the drama, she limped off the court later in the game after rolling her ankle but returned to contribute even further. Her remarkable performance amid these challenges stands as a testament to her resilience and determination.
The Trojans, now sitting at an impressive 29-3 for the season, displayed their strength throughout the tournament, aiming for a deeper run than last year, when they had reached the Elite Eight before falling to UConn. Each player on the team recognized the need for improvement as they capitalized on this opening match, setting their eyes firmly on winning a championship, the ultimate goal for any elite athlete. As one quote following the game highlighted, "The ultimate goal, as is the case for most top athletes, is to win a championship." Coach Lindsay Gottlieb clearly aligns with this mentality, as she emphasized the importance of sharpening their gameplay moving forward.
Watkins' scoring milestone came with great historical significance. She currently sits 1,312 points behind Cheryl Miller, the top scorer in USC women's basketball history, who set the record at 3,018 points. Watkins's scoring trajectory, if maintained, suggests she could eventually break even more records in collegiate basketball, including the all-time NCAA scoring record held jointly by Caitlin Clark, known for her own remarkable abilities on the court.
After the game, Watkins experienced the joy of supporting peers from other sports, as she was spotted conversing with NFL Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels in the stands. The two stars, both prominent figures in Southern California, have been friends for some time. Their mutual admiration resonates within the sports community, as fans delight in the intersection of their celebrated journeys. A video clip capturing their meeting quickly went viral, as social media accounts shared the moment, further amplifying their star power and connection.
While Daniels enjoyed the Trojans' easy victory over UNC Greensboro, his presence among the vivacious crowd underscored the excitement surrounding USC athletics. Notably, he had cheered for Watkins in previous games, including a matchup against UCLA earlier this season where she recorded an astonishing 38 points, along with 11 rebounds, 8 blocks, and 5 assists. As their friendship continues to grow, many observers note that the camaraderie between athletes from different sports can serve to inspire even greater performances and foster a sense of unity within Southern California sports culture.
As they prepare for their next challenge against ninth-seeded Mississippi State on March 24, the Trojans are confident but aware that each game will require their full attention and effort. The upcoming game represents not just another opportunity to advance further in the tournament but a chance for Watkins to solidify her legacy as one of USC’s all-time greats. Every ounce of energy and determination will be crucial as they look to build on their strong foundation and strive for the championship that remains the ultimate ambition for this team, and a coveted dream for their passionate supporters.
Watkins's journey is just beginning, but her achievements thus far serve as an inspiration not only to her teammates but to aspiring athletes across the country. With challenges ahead and milestones to chase, this rising star's trajectory seems destined for greatness, promising even more memorable moments in NCAA women's basketball.
