LOS ANGELES — In a thrilling showcase, JuJu Watkins lit up Pauley Pavilion, a venue synonymous with legends like Alcindor, Walton, and Wooden. The sophomore delivered a standout performance, contributing 30 points, five assists, three blocks, and two steals over 37 minutes, propelling No. 4 Southern California to an 80-67 victory over No. 2 UCLA. This win secured the Big Ten regular-season title on Saturday night.
Without a doubt, Wooden, whose name graces the court, would have admired her exceptional play.
“Doing your best is crucial,” Watkins stated. “It’s about ensuring you don’t let anyone down.”
After the game, Watkins joined her teammate Kiki Iriafen and coach Lindsay Gottlieb in celebration. Notably, Watkins opted out of wearing the Big Ten champion hat, explaining, “I don’t really wear hats because I have the bun,” a comment that drew laughs from those around her.
While Watkins did miss a few 3-point attempts, she took the good-natured taunting from UCLA fans chanting “Airball! Airball!” in stride.
“It fired me up a bit,” she admitted. “I couldn’t help but smile after missing. The energy here, even though they’re not cheering for us, is fantastic.”
A packed Pauley Pavilion, with a crowd of 13,359, erupted as Watkins missed three of four free throws during the third quarter. UCLA managed to close the gap to just four points. However, such instances were few.
Often, Watkins controlled the game. Whether battling past defenders to score beneath the basket and drawing fouls, or actively engaging with the crowd, Watkins remained a key figure on the court. After making a free throw amid supportive shouts from fans, she followed with a three-pointer.
Later, Watkins called for the ball from her teammate Kayleigh Henkel and nailed a decisive jumper, overpowering the 6-foot-7 Lauren Betts to conclude the third quarter.
As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, Watkins facilitated consecutive three-pointers by Avery Howell, helping the Trojans extend their lead to 20 points. Her defensive prowess was also evident, as she blocked a shot from Gabriela Jaquez, much to the delight of USC alum and Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, who offered her a high-five from courtside.
With chants of “We are SC!” echoing from fans draped in cardinal and gold, Watkins reflected on the support, saying, “It was amazing to receive that kind of love, even away from home. The energy from both fan bases was remarkable.”
Watkins’ remarkable performance was amplified by her 38-point game in USC’s prior 70-61 victory over UCLA, with the Bruins’ only losses attributed to the Trojans. The two teams might face off again in the upcoming Big Ten tournament in Indianapolis.
“I’m confident,” Watkins remarked. “Our efforts and dedication should continue to ensure our success.”
