McKenzie Forbes, a former standout for the USC women's basketball team, is set to return to the university in a new capacity as a player development assistant. After a season that saw her lead the Trojans to a Pac-12 Tournament championship and an Elite Eight appearance, Forbes will now lend her experience to the next generation of Trojans.
A brief but impactful interlude
Coach Lindsay Gottlieb praised Forbes for her deep knowledge of the game, her leadership on the court, and her ability to teach. In a short statement, Gottlieb said Forbes brings a wealth of insight that will help shape the program's future while she prepares for her upcoming professional adventure.
From Pac-12 glory to overseas courts
Forbes' basketball journey has taken her beyond the collegiate ranks. She was selected in the third round of the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks, though she was waived before the season began. Over the past two years she has competed in leagues across Australia and Europe, honing her skills against international talent.
Mentoring the next generation
In her new role, Forbes will work directly with Juju Watkins, the highly touted freshman who has already drawn comparisons to the program's all‑time greats. The pairing offers a rare opportunity for the veteran to pass on lessons learned from her own rise, while Watkins prepares to make her mark on the Pac‑12 stage.
Looking ahead
Forbes plans to remain with USC for a few months before traveling to France to continue her professional career. Her brief stint as a player development assistant is expected to leave a lasting imprint on the team's culture and on the development of its emerging stars.