The Big Ten women’s basketball landscape is about to look a lot different this season, and it’s all because of one glaring absence: JuJu Watkins. The Southern California star, whose electrifying play carried the Trojans to a Big Ten title and back-to-back Elite Eight appearances, is sidelined for the year due to an ACL injury. Her absence leaves a massive void, not just for USC but for the entire conference, which is now scrambling to redefine its hierarchy. But here’s where it gets interesting: UCLA, fresh off their historic Final Four run, has emerged as the undisputed favorite, with Maryland hot on their heels. Could this be the year the Bruins finally claim the throne? And this is the part most people miss—while JuJu’s absence is undeniable, the conference is still stacked with talent, from UCLA’s powerhouse duo of Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice to Maryland’s deep roster of returning stars and fresh faces. But is a JuJu-less Big Ten truly less competitive, or does it simply open the door for new rivalries to ignite?
The impact of Watkins’ absence is felt far beyond the Trojans’ locker room. Last season, a record 12 Big Ten teams made the NCAA Tournament, a testament to the conference’s depth and JuJu’s role in elevating its profile. “She makes me a better coach,” UCLA’s Cori Close admitted, reflecting on the rivalry. “Her level of excellence pushes everyone to be better.” Close’s Bruins, led by preseason Player of the Year Lauren Betts, are the team to beat, but they’re not alone. Maryland, with its blend of experience and youth, is poised to challenge for the title. “We’re ready to compete against the best,” coach Brenda Frese declared, highlighting the conference’s relentless competition.
But here’s the controversial take: Is the Big Ten’s success this season a testament to its depth, or is it simply a product of UCLA and Maryland’s dominance? While the Bruins and Terrapins are clear frontrunners, the conference’s 18-team format ensures a grueling schedule that prepares teams for the NCAA Tournament. “You face so many different styles in the Big Ten,” Close noted. “It doesn’t matter who you draw in March—you’ll be ready.”
Meanwhile, USC isn’t waving the white flag. Coach Lindsay Gottlieb insists the Trojans remain a force, even without JuJu. “No one can replace her,” Gottlieb said. “But we’re building a versatile, exciting team.” Enter Jazzy Davidson, the nation’s top-ranked freshman, who Gottlieb predicts will take the college basketball world by storm. “By the time the season tips off, everyone will know her name,” Gottlieb promised. But is Jazzy enough to keep USC in contention, or is the post-JuJu era too steep a climb?
As the season tips off, one thing is clear: the Big Ten is a conference in transition. UCLA and Maryland are the favorites, but the race is far from over. Will the Bruins solidify their dynasty, or will a dark horse emerge? And what does JuJu’s absence truly mean for the conference’s identity? Is this the end of an era, or the beginning of something even greater? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think the Big Ten is better off without JuJu, or is her absence a setback for the conference’s national reputation?
