The stage is set for Monday night’s Elite Eight game between UConn and USC, with the nation’s top two individual players, Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins, facing off in a compelling matchup. However, Watkins will not be able to participate due to a season-ending ACL tear.
Despite the absence of its star player, USC has shown resilience, with Kiki Iriafen scoring 36 points in the team’s second-round win against Mississippi State, and Kennedy Smith matching a career-best 19 points in the Sweet 16 win over Kansas State. UConn, meanwhile, is motivated by Bueckers’ quest for an elusive national title.
The teams have both relied on contributions from their supporting casts to advance, but neither can guarantee a Final Four trip. Coaches stress the importance of players making plays and the ball falling in their favor, especially in high-pressure situations.
UConn coach Geno Auriemma notes that some players will rise to the occasion, while others will shrink under pressure. USC’s Lindsay Gottlieb credits her team’s freshmen for leading them deeper into the tournament than they have in 30 years.
The game has become a test of which team can overcome adversity and make the most plays to clear the hurdle to the Final Four. With no guarantees, Monday night’s matchup will be just as compelling as expected, as the teams look to advance to the next stage of the NCAA Tournament.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6243403/2025/03/31/uconn-vs-usc-promises-drama