JuJu Watkins Returns as USC Prepare for Another Showdown With No. 1 South Carolina

Women’s college basketball is still in its early stages, but Sunday’s meeting between No. 1 South Carolina and No. 3 USC is already shaping up to be one of the season’s biggest games. The matchup also carries extra significance, with JuJu Watkins back in the Trojans’ lineup after missing both meetings between the programs last season.

The two teams will meet for the third time in less than 12 months, with South Carolina winning the previous two encounters. The Gamecocks defeated USC in the second round of last season’s NCAA Tournament, adding another chapter to a rivalry that has quickly become one of the most intriguing in women’s basketball.

This time, however, USC will have its biggest star available. Watkins missed both previous matchups while recovering from an ACL injury suffered 20 months ago. The junior guard has wasted little time reminding everyone of her impact since returning to action.

Watkins averaged 26.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 3.5 steals across USC’s opening victories against UNLV and Utah State. Her performances have given the Trojans an immediate boost ahead of their toughest early-season test.

South Carolina has also enjoyed a strong start, defeating ranked opponents Maryland and North Carolina in its first two games. The Gamecocks’ 45-point victory over the Tar Heels was particularly impressive, marking the largest margin of victory the program has recorded against a Top 25 opponent, according to ESPN.

The reigning powerhouse has also welcomed back Chloe Kitts, who missed last season after suffering an ACL injury. Kitts made an immediate impact against North Carolina, recording 17 points and 10 rebounds. It was her first double-double since posting 15 points and 11 rebounds against Maryland in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

With both teams featuring important returning players, Sunday’s contest offers an opportunity to see how they measure up against each other with considerably different lineups.

Vanderbilt Faces Another Major Test Against Iowa

Sunday’s schedule also features an important matchup between No. 8 Vanderbilt and No. 10 Iowa. The Commodores, led by Mikayla Blakes, enter the contest with a 3-0 record after scoring more than 100 points in each of their opening games.

However, facing Iowa on the road will present a significant challenge. The Hawkeyes are coming off a loss to UConn, while Vanderbilt will get an early opportunity to experience a difficult road environment before beginning its demanding SEC schedule.

Ivy League Teams Face Ranked Competition

Several Ivy League programs also have important games this week.

Columbia will host No. 2 Michigan on Thursday, marking the highest-ranked opponent ever to visit the program. The Lions will then travel to face No. 19 Maryland on Sunday.

Princeton has three challenging assignments, including a home meeting with Villanova before traveling west to play Pepperdine and No. 10 UCLA. Penn will also have a major opportunity when it hosts No. 23 North Carolina on Saturday.

Pat Summitt to Receive Commemorative Stamp

Away from the court, legendary Tennessee coach Pat Summitt will receive another major recognition. The U.S. Postal Service announced that Summitt will be honored with a commemorative stamp in 2027, alongside baseball icon Willie Mays.

Summitt, who died in 2016 at age 64, won eight NCAA championships and recorded 1,098 victories during her remarkable coaching career. Her legacy remains deeply connected to the growth of women’s basketball.