Don’t miss the No. 2 UCLA Bruins vs. No. 4 USC Trojans rematch! This pivotal women’s college basketball game decides the Big Ten regular season champion and impacts NCAA Tournament seeding. All eyes are on USC’s JuJu Watkins and UCLA’s Lauren Betts, frontrunners for National Player of the Year, as their performance could sway voters and secure the prestigious award.

The rematch between the No. 2 UCLA Bruins and No. 4 USC Trojans on Saturday night is more than just another game in the women’s college basketball calendar. It’s a contest that will determine the Big Ten regular season champion and have significant implications for NCAA Tournament seeding. Both teams are projected as No. 1 seeds, and a victory could cement that status for the winner.

The game also carries weight in the race for National Player of the Year, with USC’s JuJu Watkins and UCLA’s Lauren Betts as the frontrunners. Watkins, a sophomore, has been a standout performer for the Trojans, averaging 24.2 points per game and contributing in multiple facets of the game. Betts, a 6-foot-7 center for the Bruins, has been equally impactful, averaging 20 points and 9.8 rebounds per game, leading her team to a historic season.

The Battle for the Big Ten Crown ###

UCLA and USC, in their first season in the Big Ten, have both posted a 16-1 record in conference play. The winner of the upcoming game will claim the regular season title outright and secure the top seed in the Big Ten Tournament. For USC, their only loss in conference play came against Iowa, while UCLA’s lone defeat was at the hands of the Trojans earlier in the season.

This matchup is a testament to the rapid rise of both programs within the Big Ten. USC’s resurgence, led by Watkins, has been remarkable, while UCLA’s dominance, driven by Betts, has been nearly flawless. The game at Pauley Pavilion is not just about bragging rights but also about establishing a new standard of excellence in the conference.

JuJu Watkins: A Rising Star ###

JuJu Watkins has been the driving force behind USC’s success this season. Her performance against UCLA earlier in the season, where she scored 38 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and contributed five assists, eight blocks, and a steal, was a testament to her all-around skills. Watkins is not just a scorer; she averages 6.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, making her a complete player.

Watkins’ impact extends beyond the court. As a sophomore, she has helped USC achieve its best record through 27 games since the 1982-83 season. Her ability to lead and perform under pressure has been crucial for the Trojans, who have overcome a challenging schedule to remain in contention for the top seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Lauren Betts: Dominating Inside ###

Lauren Betts has been the anchor for UCLA’s historic season. The 6-foot-7 center has been a force on both ends of the court, averaging 20 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. Her efficiency from the field, shooting 62.9%, has been a key factor in UCLA’s success, contributing to their first-ever No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25 poll.

Betts’ performance against Wisconsin, where she recorded 26 points and 10 rebounds on 11 of 12 shooting, showcased her dominance inside. Her presence in the paint has been a major reason for UCLA’s 28-1 record and their status as a top contender for the national championship.

The Player of the Year Race ###

The National Player of the Year race is heating up, with Watkins and Betts as the leading candidates. Watkins’ versatility and impact on USC’s success have made her a favorite among sportsbooks, while Betts’ dominance and UCLA’s near-perfect record have put her in strong contention.

Other players, such as Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo, UConn’s Paige Bueckers, and LSU’s Aneesah Morrow, will also receive votes. However, the matchup between Watkins and Betts on Saturday night could be a deciding factor in the race. A standout performance from either player could sway voters and secure the prestigious award.

Watkins’ Philanthropic Legacy ###

Beyond her basketball prowess, JuJu Watkins is carrying on her family’s legacy of philanthropy in Los Angeles. Inspired by her great-grandfather Ted, who founded the Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC) to fight poverty, Watkins has been actively involved in community service.

Watkins has used her platform to support student athletes affected by wildfires in Los Angeles, donating backpacks and hygiene products. Her commitment to giving back reflects her family’s history of uplifting others, a tradition that continues to inspire her off the court.

The Rivalry’s Impact on the NCAA Tournament ###

The outcome of the UCLA vs. USC game will have significant implications for NCAA Tournament seeding. Both teams are currently projected as No. 1 seeds, and a victory would solidify their status. For UCLA, a win could help them maintain their position as the top overall seed, while USC could strengthen their case for a top seed with a victory on the road.

The game is also part of a larger weekend of women’s college basketball action that could impact tournament seeding. Other notable matchups include No. 25 Louisville at No. 3 Notre Dame and No. 12 Ohio State at No. 19 Maryland. These games, along with the UCLA vs. USC showdown, will shape the final rankings before the tournament begins.

Implications and Conclusion ###

The rematch between UCLA and USC is a pivotal moment in the women’s college basketball season. The game will determine the Big Ten regular season champion and have significant implications for NCAA Tournament seeding. For JuJu Watkins and Lauren Betts, it’s an opportunity to make a statement in the National Player of the Year race.

Beyond the court, Watkins’ commitment to philanthropy highlights the broader impact of athletes in their communities. Her dedication to giving back, inspired by her family’s legacy, adds another layer to her remarkable story.

As the season reaches its climax, the UCLA vs. USC game is a must-watch event that will shape the landscape of women’s college basketball. The outcome will not only determine conference and national honors but also set the stage for what promises to be an exciting NCAA Tournament.

More Reading and Sources…

Additional Sources

• Here’s what’s on the line when JuJu Watkins and Lauren Betts meet up in UCLA vs. USC rematch
• USC, JuJu Watkins vs. UCLA: Where to watch, tip time, TV channel, live stream for Battle for Los Angeles
• USC star JuJu Watkins is carrying on her family’s legacy of philanthropy in Los Angeles
• WBB Power Rankings: JuJu Watkins, Paige Bueckers, Hailey Hidalgo & more + UConn’s Alex Karaban joins | College Basketball Power Hour