USC Women's Basketball: Even JuJu Watkins Was Surprised By Trojans' Rise

The Lady Trojans have come a long way this season.

The USC Lady Trojans have been on a tear all season long. They finished the regular season with a 23-5 record and are on the verge of capturing their first Pac-12 tournament title.

USC is among the best teams in the country. Even though they have the tools to get it done, including their superstar freshman, JuJu Watkins, it comes as quite a surprise to members of the team, specifically Watkins. 

After their double overtime win against the UCLA Bruins in the Pac-12 semifinals, Watkins admitted she was surprised by their rapid success this season. Watkins spoke to LA Times staff writer Thuc Nhi Nguyen and spoke truthfully about how the season had transpired. 

 “I’m not going to lie,” Watkins said, giggling, “I did not think this would happen this soon. … I’m just blessed, honestly. Better than anything I could have hoped for, really.”

—JuJu Watkins, via LA Times

The USC Trojans are one win away from possibly being a number-one seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. The program can thank its star freshman, Watkins, in large part. Watkins has been unbelievable all season, averaging 27.6 points per game on 41.2% shooting from the field, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists. 

The L.A. native is representing her city the only way she knows how and is making her school and others proud. Even head coach Lindsay Gottlieb is at a loss for words about Watkins. 

“This kid is not normal.”

—Lindsay Gottlieb, via LA Times

This Trojans team is special and currently holds the 11th-best odds of winning the national championship. This March could be special for the Lady Trojans and Watkins.