New Reasons
1. My biggest argument for USC was that JuJu Watkins would be the force of nature that carried them to the title. JuJu is now sidelined for the rest of the tournament, having torn her ACL in the first four minutes of their second-round matchup with Mississippi State. The team played well in Watkins’ absence, still handling the Bulldogs easily in the Lady Trojans’ 96-59 win.
2. Throttling teams like Mississippi State and N.C. Greensboro is not a valid comp for the date with destiny that awaits in the Elite Eight should USC succeed against Kansas State. Kansas State will provide a test of USC’s sheer will to win, helping create the momentum needed to propel USC further.
3. Let’s face it. There are no Basketball Gods. Keeping us from seeing JuJu Watkins at this level is cruel to basketball fans. We may not get the special performance we expected to see, but I remain confident that USC can show a team effort against adversity that may be even more special.
Original Reasons
1. They've got Juju: If there's a name you need to know in Women's College Basketball right now, it is Juju Watkins. She's the Big Ten Player of the Year, and is the first women's college basketball player to sign a merch and collectibles deal with Fanatics. Yeah - she's good.
2. They have a score to settle with UCLA. After winning the Big Ten regular season title, the Women of Troy were overtaken by their rivals for the tournament win.
3. No shortage of NIL portal cash with all the Lakers and Dodgers in town
4. USC is a legit contender- but don't say they are "on fire." It is WAY too soon for that.
Matt Carty
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