USC Women Advance to Big Ten Title Game with Convincing Win
The bright lights of Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis shone down on JuJu Watkins as she faced a double team on the low block in the fourth quarter of the USC Trojans’ Big Ten tournament semifinal against Michigan. Up to that point, Watkins had struggled to find her rhythm, missing more shots than she had made and enduring a frustrating moment when she slammed the ball in anger after being called for charging in the first half.
As the Trojans found themselves tied with Michigan late in the game, Watkins knew she needed to make a statement. With determination and grit, she maneuvered her way through the defenders for a leaning jumper that found the net, sparking a 14-point run for USC that secured an 82-70 victory over the Wolverines.
The USC forward, Kiki Iriafen, played a crucial role in the victory with a double-double performance, scoring 25 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Her stellar play, coupled with Watkins’ late-game heroics, propelled the Trojans to the championship game against UCLA.
Watkins Leads Trojans’ Comeback
Despite Watkins’ early struggles, she rose to the occasion when her team needed her most. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb praised Watkins for her poise and resilience in the face of adversity, noting the challenges she faced with constant double teams and defensive pressure.
“JuJu showed a lot of poise out there,” Gottlieb said. “She was getting trapped and doubled, but she found a way to make plays when it mattered most.”
Watkins finished the game with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and three steals, showcasing her ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Her tenacity and competitive spirit were on full display as she willed her team to victory with clutch plays down the stretch.
Forward Rayah Marshall, who returned from an illness that sidelined her in the previous game, provided a spark off the bench with nine points and a bold prediction that inspired her teammates to rally together.
“I just heard Rayah saying, ‘This group is going to get a run,’ during our timeout,” said Malia Samuels. “Her words really motivated us to elevate our game and seize the moment.”
Trojans Overcome Adversity to Secure Victory
The game was a tale of redemption for the Trojans, who battled back from a seven-point deficit in the third quarter to take the lead heading into the final period. A late scoring burst fueled by strong conditioning and relentless determination propelled USC to a hard-fought victory over a resilient Michigan squad.
Gottlieb credited her team’s resolve and competitive spirit for the comeback, highlighting the contributions of key players like Watkins and Iriafen.
“With JuJu and Kiki leading the way, we were able to weather the storm and come out on top,” Gottlieb explained. “Their fierce competitiveness and will to win were evident throughout the game, inspiring the entire team to rise to the occasion.”
As the final buzzer sounded, the Trojans celebrated their hard-earned victory and looked ahead to the championship game with confidence and determination. Watkins’ performance, despite early struggles, served as a reminder of the team’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity when it matters most.
In the end, USC’s triumph was a testament to the team’s unity, perseverance, and unwavering belief in their ability to rise to the occasion. As they prepare to face UCLA in the title game, the Trojans know that they have what it takes to bring home the Big Ten championship.
