Sophomore guard JuJu Watkins led all scorers with 22 points to defeat the Santa Clara Broncos 81-50. In the third quarter, she became the fastest USC basketball player to score 1000 career points.
“I think I don’t take these things for granted, very blessed to be in this position,” Watkins said. “Grateful for everybody here, coaches, staff, teammates, I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Watkins is currently averaging 21.3 points per game and 26.6 in her career. This season, she is shooting at 40 percent in field goals and 30 percent from three-point shots.
Woman of Troy legend Cheryl Miller was the previous record holder, reaching 1000 points in 48 games during the 1983-1984 season. Watkins completed the feat in 38 games.
Related Stories
Student Athlete of the Week: Ka’yon Richardson
Student Athlete of the Week: Crystal Jones
“It’s always worth noting too when you break a record at USC, it hits a little different because the people that you’re breaking the record from are so great,” said Women of Troy basketball head coach Lindsey Gottlieb. “You see the work ethic every day and you see everything that she handles.”
As a freshman, Watkins was the second-leading scorer in the nation. During her time at USC, she has only scored less than 15 points in a game on one occasion. Watkins mentioned how she is proud of how her basketball IQ has developed.
“I think I’m seeing the floor better this year, trying to get my teammates the ball where they like it as much as possible,” Watkins said.
A Tamika Catchings Award winner, ESPY winner for Best Breakthrough Athlete, and Pac-12 Freshman of the Year, Watkins has also been showing her defensive talents.
In the first four games this season. Watkins is first on the team in total assists (19), steals (15), and blocks (12).
“Regardless of who we play, every game is to get better and that’s what we’re doing. It’s not only in games, it’s in practice too,” Watkins said. “We’re all kind of new together, so that will continue to evolve.”
Grad student forward Kiki Iriafen scored 20 points and seven rebounds against the Broncos. Senior Rayah Marshall made 12 points, five rebounds, and two blocks. Grad student guard Talia von Oelhoffen led with six assists.
The Women of Troy will face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on November 23 at 1:00P.M.
