JuJu Watkins stars as USC holds off Paige Bueckers, UConn - ESPN

HARTFORD, Conn. — Eight months ago in Portland, Oregon, Paige Bueckers and No. 3-seed UConn knocked off JuJu Watkins and No. 1-seed USC for a spot in the 2024 Final Four, prevailing in an epic showdown between two of the biggest stars in women's basketball.

On a chilly Saturday night in Hartford in front of a crowd of nearly 16,000, USC finally avenged that loss in one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2024-25 season.

The No. 7 Trojans warded off a furious comeback from the No. 4 Huskies to come away with a 72-70 victory at the XL Center, earning their first marquee win of the season.

«It feels great to get the dub always,» Watkins said. «I think it hit a little different knowing the history of last year and how they sent us home.»

She added: «It was just great to see everybody that came out. I don't think I've ever played in front of so many people.»

USC dominated the first half and led by as many as 18 early in the third quarter before UConn stormed back, briefly leading midway through the fourth. Neither team led by more than three points in the final 6:21 of the game, but Watkins found Rayah Marshall for the go-ahead basket with 1:24 to play.

The big names showed out in a game that was hyped for its star power: Standout freshman Sarah Strong and Bueckers, the 2021 national player of the year and presumptive 2025 WNBA No. 1 draft pick, each finished with 22 points for UConn. Impact transfer Kiki Iriafen put up 16 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for USC. Watkins led all scorers with 25 points, with 15 coming in the first half to help USC build its sizable lead.

«It's just a testament to when you give women a platform, we're going to perform,» Watkins said. «I think that tonight was an excellent game.… It was