What's Happening?
The USC Trojans women's basketball team is gearing up for the 2026-27 season with renewed vigor, following a previous season where they finished with an 18-14 overall record and a 9-9 mark in Big Ten play. The team, led by coach Lindsey Gottlieb, is bolstered
by the return of star guard JuJu Watkins from injury, alongside sophomore standout Jazzy Davidson and a promising group of freshman recruits. The Big Ten conference has announced the home and away opponents for the upcoming season, setting the stage for USC to aim for the conference crown. The Trojans will face a mix of formidable opponents both at home and on the road, including teams like the Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, and Iowa Hawkeyes. Last season, USC struggled on the road with a 3-6 record, highlighting the importance of improving their away game performance to secure a top seed in the conference tournament.
Why It's Important?
The upcoming season is crucial for USC as they seek to establish themselves as a national championship contender. The return of key players and the addition of new talent provide the Trojans with a strong foundation to improve upon last season's performance. Success in the Big Ten is not only vital for conference standings but also for national recognition and potential tournament seeding. The team's ability to perform well against top-tier opponents, especially on the road, will be a significant factor in their quest for the conference title. Additionally, the rivalry with UCLA, who swept USC last season and went on to win the national championship, adds an extra layer of motivation for the Trojans to reclaim their dominance.
What's Next?
USC will focus on preparing for their challenging schedule, emphasizing the need to improve their road game performance. The team will also aim to capitalize on their home court advantage at the Galen Center, where they went 5-3 last season. Key matchups against teams like Oregon, Iowa, and Maryland will test the Trojans' mettle and provide opportunities to make a statement in the conference. The rivalry games against UCLA will be particularly significant, as USC seeks to avenge last season's losses and reassert their position in the Big Ten. The development and integration of new recruits will also be a critical factor in the team's success.
