The USC women’s basketball team enters the Big Ten Conference season with a solid overall record of 9-3 after a blend of commanding victories and valuable lessons against top-tier teams. After completing their nonconference schedule, the Trojans recorded a 59-50 win against Washington, marking their only conference matchup to date. As they gear up for their next game on January 3, 2024, against Nebraska, the No. 17 ranked Trojans are poised to face one of the most competitive leagues in the nation.
The loss of star guard JuJu Watkins, who is sidelined for the season due to a torn ACL, raises several questions as the team transitions into conference play. Notably, the performance of freshman player Jazzy Davidson will be crucial. Davidson has emerged as a key player, leading the Trojans with an average of 16.1 points per game. Her impressive basketball IQ and defensive skills, including a conference-leading 2.4 blocks per game, have positioned her as a formidable force on the court.
Assessing the Trojans’ Depth
USC’s success hinges not only on Davidson but also on the depth of its roster. Coach Lindsay Gottlieb emphasizes a team-oriented approach, stating that the players’ roles extend beyond traditional starter and bench designations. The Trojans’ bench contributes an average of 26.7 points per game, showcasing the team’s competitive depth.
Gottlieb has experimented with various lineups this season, with the most successful combination featuring Davidson alongside Kara Dunn, Vivian Iwuchukwu, Malia Samuels, and Kennedy Smith, resulting in a 5-1 record. This depth will be essential in navigating the demanding Big Ten schedule, particularly if the team encounters foul trouble. In a recent game against California, the Trojans faced significant challenges when key players fouled out, highlighting the importance of their bench.
Key Contributions from Newcomers
Another significant addition to the roster is Londynn Jones, who transferred from rival UCLA. Although she has only started one game, Jones has made a notable impact, averaging 12.9 points per game with minimal turnovers. Her experience in postseason play, including a run to the NCAA Final Four with UCLA last season, adds valuable insight to the team. Coach Gottlieb recognizes Jones’ experience as a critical asset, stating, “She’s been to where we want to go,” referring to the aspirations of the Trojans in the upcoming season.
As USC prepares to face off against UCLA twice during the season, the rivalry will be a highlight on the schedule. The first match is set for January 3 at Pauley Pavilion, followed by a rematch on March 1 at the Galen Center. Currently ranked No. 4 in the nation, UCLA presents a significant challenge for USC, particularly given their size advantage.
In anticipation of these matchups, the Trojans will need to leverage their strengths, including their impressive shot-blocking capability, ranked fourth in the nation with an average of 6.8 blocks per game. This defensive prowess could prove crucial against a Bruins team that scores an average of 85.9 points per game.
The upcoming Big Ten season presents both challenges and opportunities for the USC Trojans. As they navigate the intricate landscape of college basketball, the team’s depth, emerging stars, and strategic gameplay will be pivotal to their success.
