In yet another thrilling matchup, the USC Trojans secured an emphatic 81-69 victory over No.8 Iowa. Despite entering the matchup as underdogs and playing without their leading superstar, JuJu Watkins, the Trojans dismantled Iowa’s eight-game winning streak through relentless defense and a high conversion rate on turnovers.
The Galen Center was electric as Kara Dunn led the scoring with 25 points. Amidst this, a heart-warming postgame celebration between JuJu Watkins and Kennedy Smith seems to have taken the internet by storm.
An ailing Watkins lifted Smith without any hesitation, highlighting the deep-rooted chemistry and mutual respect that anchors this USC roster. Smith has often spoken about playing with Watkins in her heart and mind, and seeing the ailing superstar lift Smith in a wild celebration underscores a bond that transcends the box score.
Watkins is currently sidelined for the 2025-2026 season due to a torn ACL suffered during last year’s NCAA tournament. Her recovery process appears to be progressing with a focus on long-term health. Watkins has been visible at training camps and on the sidelines, often seen in Team USA gear or with her USC squad.
She seems to be drawing inspiration from fellow stars like Paige Bueckers, who have successfully returned from a similar injury. Watkins is utilizing her time to analyze the game from a renewed perspective.
JuJu Watkins Became The First Athlete to Have Her Jersey Retired by Sierra Canyon
On January 9, Sierra Canyon School made history by retiring JuJu Watkins’ No.12 jersey during a high-profile halftime ceremony. This milestone marked the first time the prestigious program has ever retired an athlete’s number, placing Watkins in the school’s history books.
Surrounded by friends and family at midcourt, the USC superstar watched her legacy rise to rafter, cementing her status as the greatest ever to wear the program’s uniform.
The honor reflects a prep career defined by absolute dominance and record-shattering performances. During her time at Sierra Canyon, Watkins led the team to an Open Division state title and earned every national award, including Gatorade and Naismith Player of the Year. Her 60-point performance on Senior Night remains a legendary benchmark for the program.
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