The excitement in Los Angeles is palpable as the USC Trojans prepare to step onto the court for their first game of the 2026‑27 women's basketball season. On November 2, the team will travel to T‑Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to take on the UNLV Rebels, marking the opening night of the Naismith Hall of Fame Series.
A Milestone Return
After missing the previous campaign due to a torn ACL, JuJu Watkins is set to make her long‑awaited return. The guard, who earned consensus National Player of the Year honors in 2024‑25, brings a proven scoring threat and a leadership presence that will instantly elevate the Trojans' outlook.
Watkins' impact goes beyond her accolades; during the 2024‑25 season she averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game, helping USC finish the year with an 18‑14 overall record and a 9‑9 mark in Big Ten play. The team earned a No. 9 seed in the NCAA Tournament, winning an overtime thriller over Clemson before falling to South Carolina in the Round of 32.
Fresh Faces and New Leadership
In Watkins' absence, freshman guard Jazzy Davidson emerged as a reliable scorer, averaging 17.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game. Her steady performance provided a glimpse of the depth and versatility the Trojans now hope to harness alongside their star returnee.
The Trojans' ultimate goal is clear: capture their first NCAA national championship. This pursuit comes on the heels of the UCLA Bruins' recent title, a milestone that adds a new layer of rivalry and motivation for USC as they aim to rise to the top of the national landscape.
Looking Ahead
With the season opener fast approaching, the team's chemistry will be tested in a high‑stakes environment. The matchup against UNLV not only serves as a showcase for the Naismith Hall of Fame Series but also as a early indicator of how quickly USC can blend Watkins' experience with Davidson's fresh energy. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether the Trojans can translate their offseason optimism into on‑court success.