A New Era for USC Women's Basketball
Coach Lindsay Gottlieb is shaping a potentially historic team for the 2025‑26 campaign, one that could challenge for a national championship. The roster blends proven talent with the nation's most coveted recruits, creating a depth that few programs can match.
At the center of the excitement is JuJu Watkins, the 2024‑25 national player of the year, who is currently recuperating from a knee injury but is expected to be fully ready for summer workouts. Her return adds a dynamic scoring threat that can stretch defenses and create space for teammates.
Joining Watkins are Jazzy Davidson, the Big 12 and National freshman of the year, and Saniyah Hall, the top recruit of the 2026 class. Both players bring elite skill sets and are expected to contribute immediately, adding versatility and athleticism to the lineup.
Beyond the headline names, Gottlieb has bolstered the squad with experienced additions such as Pania Davis, Sara Okeke, Laura Williams, Sitaya Fagan, and Ryan Bennett. Their presence provides depth at every position and reinforces the team's commitment to playing together and generating offense through movement.
A notable tactical emphasis will be the frequent use of four‑guard lineups, leveraging the team's superior positional size to control the pace and create mismatches. This approach reflects Gottlieb's belief that chemistry and spacing will be the cornerstones of success.
With a blend of star power, high‑level recruits, and seasoned role players, the Trojans are positioned to be serious contenders. The ultimate goal is clear: to gel as a unit, dominate the floor, and bring a national title to Southern California.