What's Happening?
The USC Trojans women's basketball team is gearing up for the 2026-27 season with a renewed sense of optimism. Following a season where they finished with an 18-14 overall record and a 9-9 mark in Big Ten play, the team is looking to improve significantly.
The return of star guard JuJu Watkins from injury, alongside sophomore standout Jazzy Davidson and a strong freshman class, positions the Trojans as potential national championship contenders. The Big Ten conference recently announced the home and away opponents for the upcoming season. USC will face teams like the Illinois Fighting Illini, Northwestern Wildcats, and Michigan Wolverines at home, while challenging road games include matchups against the Indiana Hoosiers, Purdue Boilermakers, and Iowa Hawkeyes. The Trojans aim to capitalize on their home court advantage at the Galen Center, where they went 5-3 last season, and improve their road performance, which was 3-6 in conference play.
Why It's Important?
The upcoming season is crucial for USC as they seek to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in women's college basketball. The team's performance will not only impact their standing in the Big Ten but also their seeding in the NCAA tournament. Success in the conference could lead to a higher national ranking and better recruitment opportunities. The return of key players and the addition of new talent provide a unique opportunity for the Trojans to challenge for the Big Ten crown and potentially make a deep run in the national tournament. The team's ability to win on the road will be a significant factor in their success, as it has been a challenge in past seasons. Additionally, the rivalry with UCLA, who won the national championship last season, adds an extra layer of motivation for USC to perform well.
What's Next?
USC will focus on preparing for the upcoming season by addressing their weaknesses, particularly their road performance. The team will likely engage in rigorous training and strategic planning to ensure they can compete effectively against top-tier opponents. The coaching staff, led by Lindsey Gottlieb, will play a crucial role in developing game plans that leverage the strengths of their returning and new players. As the season progresses, USC will need to maintain consistency and resilience, especially in high-pressure games against rivals like UCLA. The outcome of these games could significantly influence their position in the conference and their prospects in the national tournament.
