UConn vs USC: Injury Report, Starting 5, & More as Paige Bueckers Takes on Juju Watkins
UConn and USC are all set to go head-to-head in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. All eyes will be on the two of college basketball’s brightest stars: Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins. With UConn coming in hot after a strong season start and USC looking to extend their winning streak.
With USC’s impressive run so far this season, including victories over top-ranked teams. On the other hand, UConn has been a dominant force in women’s college basketball, and this game very well may decide who takes control.
Injury report and starting five for UConn vs. USC
It looks like both teams are sticking with what’s been working for them. For UConn, we’re expecting Geno Auriemma to roll out his usual starting five, with Paige Bueckers, Sarah Strong, Kaitlyn Chen, Ice Brady, and Ashlynn Shade leading the charge.
On the USC side, Lindsay Gottlieb will likely send out JuJu Watkins, Kiki Iriafen, Talia von Oelhoffen, Rayah Marshall, and Kayleigh Heckel as her starters.
As for injuries, UConn has a few key players dealing with setbacks. Azzi Fudd is nursing a knee sprain and will likely be out for at least a week. Aubrey Griffin is still working her way back from an ACL tear, and unfortunately, Ayanna Patterson will be sidelined for the rest of the season after shoulder surgery.
On the USC side, Kennedy Smith was sidelined indefinitely after undergoing a surgical procedure. Her status was announced shortly before the Trojans hosted Notre Dame last month. Other than that, both teams are looking strong as they gear up for Saturday’s big matchup.
For UConn, Paige Bueckers, Sarah Strong, and Ashlynn Shade are going to be crucial in making plays and putting points on the board. On the USC side, all eyes will be on JuJu Watkins to lead the offense, while Rayah Marshall and Kiki Iriafen will be key in locking down the defense.
Paige Bueckers vs. JuJu Watkins: Who Will Prevail?
Paige Bueckers, the heart and soul of UConn, has returned after injury, and she is playing some of the best basketball of her career. Bueckers averages 20.6 points per game and has proven her knack for creating scoring opportunities.
On the other hand, USC’s JuJu Watkins, the explosive freshman, has been making waves with her scoring and leadership skills. Watkins, known for her ability to score from anywhere on the floor, is averaging 24.7 points per game. With this momentum, Watkins will surely be looking to outshine Bueckers in this head-to-head showdown.
USA Today via Reuters
USC has shown it can hold its own against top-tier teams, and while UConn might be considered the favorite, USC has the talent and determination to make it a competitive matchup. Despite a loss to Notre Dame, UConn remains one of the most consistent teams, with a well-balanced offense and defense. On the other hand, having a win over teams like Liberty and Phoenix, USC has momentum on their side.
This Saturday promises to be an electrifying showdown of two goliaths. With both teams boasting explosive talent, it will surely keep the fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.
