College basketball is back, and most importantly, JuJu Watkins is firing on all cylinders. The young superstar's return will change USC's outlook on the season. But the landscape has altered since Watkins' injury layoff. The program now has two five-star recruits, Jazzy Davidson and Saniyah Hall, who aren't here to make up the numbers. USC's new duo are already showcasing their incredible talents -- which should actually benefit Watkins.
Many NCAA experts assume JuJu Watkins will be selected with the first overall pick if she declares for the WNBA draft in 2027. Even after her college career was halted by a devastating right ACL tear, Watkins' superstar potential is impossible to ignore.
The 21-year-old took no time at all to get back into rhythm with an aggressive 21-point, 5-rebound performance, leading the Trojans to a 100-68 win over the UNLV Lady Rebels. Watkins naturally stole the headlines on her return, but Jazzy Davidson and Saniyah Hall were USC's star performers. If this becomes a recurring theme throughout the season, it will take the shine off JuJu's senior year. From a team perspective, this certainly isn't a bad thing.
Numbers look good, but championships are forever
If this is the year that JuJu Watkins declares for the WNBA draft, recording career-high numbers is the best way to secure her place at the top of franchises' shopping lists. Realistically, the electric guard doesn't even have to go that far to be selected first overall. Only Hannah Hidalgo and Madison Booker can steal that crown. Watkins should keep her eyes on a championship and trust her teammates to lead her there.
Jazzy Davidson thrived during her rookie year in Watkins' absence, averaging 17.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks per game. Despite a scintillating start to her college career, question marks remained about whether she could replicate that production when her star teammate returned. It took one game for Davidson to provide an answer.
In her sophomore season bow, the 19-year-old recorded 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists while shooting an incredible 90.9 percent from the floor. Despite outscoring Watkins, Davidson's offensive role clearly reduced, as she averaged 5.9 fewer shot attempts per game than last season's average -- something that was likely expected given teammates' reputation.
Saniyah Hall was equally devastating as she announced her arrival in the NCAA. The rookie sensation registered 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, sinking 87.5 percent of her shot attempts. Hall showcased that USC has uncovered another two-way wing that will only bolster the team's championship ambitions.
From a selfish point of view, JuJu Watkins would benefit from being the star of the show for the Trojans in her final year, but her legacy can be greater than just statistics. Championships are won through collective effort, and as generational as Watkins' talent is, individual brilliance won't be enough to deliver one. With two other five-star recruits by her side, JuJu could etch her name into USC folklore.
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