Kiki Iriafen reviews lethal partnership with JuJu Watkins after snatching last-minute win in first outing with USC

The USC Trojans women’s basketball team opened its season in Paris at the 2024 Aflac Oui-Play tournament against the Ole Miss Rebels. The game marked an international debut for USC’s highly anticipated lineup.

JuJu Watkins and Kiki Iriafen made an impact on the court. Iriafen contributed 22 points, while Watkins led the team with 27 points.

USC maintained a narrow lead and eventually secured a 68-66 victory, with Iriafen hitting clutch free throws in the final moments.

After the game, Iriafen shared her thoughts on playing alongside Watkins for the first time.

“It’s great. She’s very selfless. I love playing with her. I love a pick and roll with her because you kind of have to pick your poison.

"But she was great. She was great out there for me. You know, always uplifting me, and I’m trying to do the same for her. But she’s a great teammate, and I can’t wait to see the rest of the things that we’ll do this season."

What's next for Kiki Iriafen and JuJu Watkins' USC?

The focus for USC this season will be the partnership between Watkins and Iriafen, a transfer from Stanford.

Coach Lindsay Gottlieb previously praised the two players’ potential synergy.

USC entered the 2024-25 season ranked No. 3 in the AP women’s basketball rankings, marking its highest preseason rank since 1984.

After its victory in Paris, USC will have a quick turnaround, facing Cal Poly San Luis Obispo at the Galen Center on Saturday. Meanwhile, Ole Miss will look to regroup as it prepares to host Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday.

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