JuJu Watkins has established herself as arguably the best player in women’s basketball early in her career with the USC Trojans. Watkins committed to USC as one of the most highly touted recruits in women’s basketball history and now led the Trojans to the No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Before the Trojans embark on the NCAA Tournament, Watkins was announced as a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. “MAD DOG,” posted the USC women’s basketball The other names listed as finalists for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award include JJ Quinerly, Hannah Hidalgo and Lauren Betts.
MAD DOG 🔒🔒
JuJu Watkins has been named one of four finalists for the @NaismithTrophy DPOY Award! ✌️ pic.twitter.com/X6ssOkHk2u
— USC Women's Basketball (@USCWBB) March 21, 2025
So far this season, Watkins has averaged 24.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.
In terms of defensive production, Watkins has recorded 2.2 steals and 1.9 blocks per game. Watkins leads the Trojans in average points, assists and steals.
Watkins and USC are fresh off a Big Ten Tournament championship loss to the UCLA Bruins. Before losing to the Bruins in the Big Ten title game, the Trojans defeated Michigan and Indiana in the conference tournament.
The Trojans will now face UNC Greensboro in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. UNC Greensboro enters the game with a 25-6 record, riding a 14-game win streak.
No Comment! Be the first one.