JuJu Watkins dazzles in home opener, powering No. 3 USC to a 118-40 rout
JuJu Watkins delivered 32 points and 16 rebounds as No. 3 USC cruised past Utah State.
Los Angeles — Senior guard JuJu Watkins delivered a stellar performance, dropping 32 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, tossing in six assists and stealing five balls to propel No. 3 USC to a resounding 118-40 victory over Utah State on Sunday. USC made a grand home debut at the Galen Center, and the raucous crowd went wild as Watkins received a well-deserved standing ovation upon exiting the game with just 2:34 remaining.
Her explosive return after being sidelined for 20 months due to a torn ACL was nothing short of electrifying. The 21-year-old has been a force to be reckoned with in her first two games, scoring a combined 53 points for the Trojans (2-0). In their season-opener against UNLV, Watkins contributed 21 points in a resounding 100-68 triumph.
An early game highlight saw Watkins deliver a stunning buzzer-beating 15-foot jumper from the perimeter to extend USC's first-quarter lead to 36-11. Throughout the contest, Watkins demonstrated her all-around prowess, utilizing a crossover to disrupt Sami Mancini's rhythm, followed by a precise jump shot. She showcased her ability to orchestrate fast breaks, rebound effectively, and sink shots from various spots on the court, making it appear as if she were pre-injury.
Saniyah Hall contributed 20 points for the Trojans, while six players netted double-digit scores. Utah State (1-2) was held in check by Watkins, who posted 12 points and Mancini added 10. The Trojans led by a staggering 55-22 at halftime as Watkins almost matched her double-double benchmark with 16 points and nine rebounds. USC's next match-up is against College of Charleston on Tuesday, while Utah State will host Idaho State on Wednesday.
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