USC Earns First-Ever Win Over UConn, 72-70, as JuJu Watkins Scores 25

Dec 22, 2024, 02:39 AM

No. 7 University of Southern California (USC) women's basketball team upset No. 4 University of Connecticut (UConn) 72-70 in a closely contested game at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. The Trojans avenged their Elite Eight loss from the prior season, securing their first-ever win against the Huskies. Freshman guard JuJu Watkins led USC with 25 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, shooting 9-of-16 from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range. Kennedy Smith returned from injury, enhancing USC's perimeter defense. USC led 42-29 at halftime, but UConn rallied in the second half behind Paige Bueckers' 22 points. Azzi Fudd was available for UConn, contributing to a thrilling finish. Missed free throws by UConn in the final seconds allowed USC to hold on for the victory. The win improves USC's record to 11-1.