For weeks, no team had found a way to stop the UCLA Bruins. That changed on Thursday night when JuJu Watkins stepped onto the court. She delivered a performance that ended their unbeaten streak. Her dominance proved to be the difference, as the USC Trojans handed the Bruins their first loss of the season.
With every game, Watkins continues to cement her place among the best in college basketball.
JuJu Watkins Surpasses Caitlin Clark’s Record
Watkins delivered a stunning 38-point performance in USC’s 71-60 win over No. 1 UCLA. This game secured a statement victory for the Trojans and placed Watkins in an exclusive category of elite scorers.
“JuJu Watkins has surpassed Caitlin Clark for the most 30-point games against ranked opponents by a women’s college basketball player through their first two seasons,” the “I Talk Hoops” account posted on X.
FUN STAT: JuJu Watkins has surpassed Caitlin Clark for the most 30-point games against ranked opponents by a women’s college basketball player through their first two seasons. ✨ pic.twitter.com/CF2HaGJ48k
— I talk hoops 🏀 (@trendyhoopstars) February 14, 2025
From start to finish, Watkins controlled the game. Even when USC faced adversity in the third quarter, she remained composed and continued to attack.
The Trojans capitalized on UCLA’s 20 turnovers, turning them into 21 points. Watkins played a crucial role in punishing those mistakes and keeping her team in control.
Her ability to perform under pressure became even more evident in the fourth quarter. Kiki Iriafen, who had struggled earlier, came alive late in the game. She and Watkins combined for 17 points in the final stretch, ensuring that UCLA had no chance of staging a comeback.
The energy from the sold-out crowd only fueled their momentum, sealing one of the most significant wins of the season.
Watkins Continues to Break Records
Watkins’ latest accomplishment adds to an already impressive resume. Just weeks earlier, she shattered another milestone previously held by Clark, becoming the fastest Power Five player to reach 1,000 career points. Watkins achieved the feat in just 38 games, surpassing Clark’s record of 40 games.
Each time she steps on the court, Watkins raises the bar. Her combination of scoring ability, composure, and leadership has positioned her as one of the top players in women’s college basketball.
Analysts and fans are already comparing her trajectory to Clark’s, with many believing she could leave an even greater impact on the game.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Women’s College Basketball Players in 2025
As the season progresses, the focus will remain on whether Watkins can continue this historic pace. The Trojans will rely on her to lead them through a challenging schedule, and if her past performances are any indication, she will continue to deliver.
One thing is certain. Watkins has become a force in college basketball, and her legacy is only just beginning.
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