USC Women’s Basketball Upsets No. 1 UCLA, Ending Bruins’ Perfect Season
Los Angeles, CA - In a thrilling crosstown showdown, the No. 6 USC Trojans handed the top-ranked UCLA Bruins their first loss of the season, securing a 71-60 victory at the Galen Center. The win not only ended UCLA’s undefeated run but also propelled USC to the forefront of the Big Ten standings.
Sophomore sensation JuJu Watkins delivered a career-defining performance, amassing 38 points, 11 rebounds, and eight blocked shots. Her dominance was evident from the outset, as she scored 25 points in the first half alone, showcasing her offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.
The Trojans established an early lead, capitalizing on a 14-2 run in the first quarter. Despite a resilient effort from the Bruins, who managed to tie the game late in the second quarter, Watkins’ timely three-pointer ensured USC held a narrow advantage heading into halftime.
UCLA’s junior center Lauren Betts and junior guard Kiki Rice combined for 33 points, striving to keep the Bruins competitive. However, USC’s defense, anchored by Watkins, stifled UCLA’s offensive rhythm, particularly in the pivotal fourth quarter.
The final period saw the Trojans outscore the Bruins 24-8, cementing the upset and igniting celebrations among the home crowd. This victory not only avenged USC’s previous losses to UCLA but also underscored the Trojans’ emergence as a formidable force in women’s college basketball.
USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb praised her team’s resilience and highlighted Watkins’ exceptional contribution: “JuJu was phenomenal tonight, but it was truly a team effort. Our defense stepped up, and we executed our game plan against a very talented UCLA team.”
The Bruins will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup, aiming to maintain their position atop the national rankings. Meanwhile, the Trojans will seek to build on this momentum as the postseason approaches.
