LeBron James Sends 6-Word Message to JuJu Watkins After Stunning Victory Over No. 1 UCLA

Whenever the USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins meet, there’s always fierce competition, but Thursday’s game had even more intensity.

UCLA entered the game as the top-ranked team in the nation with an undefeated 23-0 record, while USC held a 21-2 record and ranked No. 6. Despite UCLA’s dominance this season, the betting odds at ESPN BET made them just 1.5-point favorites, suggesting that anything could happen. And as expected by college basketball fans, it was JuJu Watkins who stole the show.

The sophomore sensation from Los Angeles delivered an incredible performance with 38 points, 11 rebounds, and eight blocks in the 71-60 victory. Her remarkable stat line made her the first player in the past 20 seasons to record 35+ points, five blocks, and assists in a game.

NBA legend and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James took to social media to praise Watkins, calling her “too tough.”

This win also marked USC’s first victory over the AP No. 1 team since their 1983 win against Louisiana Tech in the title game. That Louisiana Tech team included current LSU head coach Kim Mulkey.

James has consistently supported Watkins, who, like his sons Bronny and Bryce, played at Sierra Canyon after transferring from Windward School. During her time there, she led the Blazers to a state championship in her junior year with a 30-2 record and followed up with a 30-1 record in her senior year, just missing a repeat as champions.

The Trojans relied heavily on Watkins’ 38 points as, after leading 38-35 at halftime, the Bruins outscored them 17-9 in the third quarter. Her performance marked the fifth time this season she has scored over 30 points and has helped USC claim the top spot in the Big Ten.

The two teams will meet again on Saturday, March 1, at 6:00 PM PT, with the game airing on FOX.