- Watkins averages 24.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game for No. 1 USC
- Trojans aim to surpass last season’s Elite Eight NCAA Tournament finish
- Mentored by ex-Lakers coach Phil Handy, boasts $739k NIL valuation
- USC home attendance surged 471% since 2022 behind Watkins’ stardom
- Stanford transfer Kiki Iriafen provides critical frontcourt support
Southern California’s women’s basketball program has reignited championship aspirations behind sophomore phenom JuJu Watkins. The Los Angeles native enters March Madness averaging 24.6 points per game, spearheading a Trojans squad that’s tripled home game attendance since her arrival. Watkins’ unique blend of skill and marketability positions her as both a tournament X-factor and the new face of collegiate athletics.
Industry analysts highlight three critical factors in USC’s resurgence: strategic use of transfer portal additions, Watkins’ Kobe Bryant-level work ethic, and the financial muscle of NIL partnerships. The Trojans’ 5,932 average attendance—a 471% increase from pre-Watkins seasons—reflects growing national interest in women’s college basketball. This surge mirrors broader NCAA trends, where 2023 Final Four viewership outpaced men’s semifinals in key demographics.
Watkins’ development under trainer Phil Handy reveals basketball’s evolving mentorship models. The former Lakers assistant implemented pro-style film study routines, helping Watkins decode double teams and zone defenses. “She studies coverages like a 10-year veteran,” Handy noted. This preparation shows in late-game situations—Watkins shoots 47% in fourth quarters compared to her 41% overall field goal percentage.
USC’s Los Angeles location provides unique recruiting advantages. The program leverages Southern California’s talent pipeline while benefiting from Watkins’ local roots in Watts. Community support manifests in sold-out Galen Center games attended by celebrities like Michael B. Jordan, creating a pro sports atmosphere rare in college basketball.
As the Trojans prepare for their opening NCAA Tournament game, Watkins’ ability to balance individual excellence with team chemistry remains crucial. With Stanford transfer Kiki Iriafen contributing 18.2 PPG at efficient shooting clips, USC possesses the offensive firepower for a championship run. The team’s 28-3 record against top-25 opponents suggests they’re built for postseason pressure.