WATCH: USC’s JuJu Watkins receives technical for taunt after block on Ole Miss guard
JuJu Watkins delivered a masterful performance to kick-start the NCAA women's basketball season as No. 3 USC defeated No. 20 Ole Miss 68-66 in Paris on Monday. However, this performance also saw her receiving the first technical foul of the campaign.
At the 7:08 mark of the second quarter, Watkins blocked Ole Miss Rebels guard Kennedy Todd-Williams as she attempted a right-handed layup. Right as the ball landed on the hardwood, Watkins let out a scream to celebrate the defensive play. However, the nearby courtside referee assessed Watkins with a technical foul for taunting.
Aside from Watkins, her teammates and USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb appeared to be upset over the call, but KK Deans converted both free throws.
Despite the technical foul, the Trojans managed a 37-26 halftime lead. However, Ole Miss mounted a valiant second-half turnaround before coming two points short against the squad ranked No. 3.
Watkins' performance in campaign opener
JuJu Watkins continues to leave her mark in NCAA women's basketball. However, despite an impressive season opener, she seemingly still has some on-court problems that need fixing.
Watkins led the Trojans with a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds, along with four assists, three steals and five blocks. However, in addition to her technical foul, she turned the ball over nine times, committed three fouls and only shot 8-for-19, including the lone conversion for USC from 3-point range.
New acquisition Kiki Iriafen also made an impressive debut for the Trojans, contributing 22 points, 13 boards and a steal, including the game-winning free throws. Kennedy Smith also put up 12 points, seven rebounds and a block.
The Trojans held as big as a 15-point lead in the third quarter, but Ole Miss fought back with defensive pressure and a 13-4 run to take a 64-60 lead with 2:49 left in the game. However, USC regained the lead by converting its last eight free throws to eke out a two-point win.
JuJu Watkins and the Trojans will be eager to get their groove as they host the next four games. The Women of Troy will be hosting Cal Poly on Saturday, CSU Northridge (Nov. 12), Santa Clara (Nov. 15), and Notre Dame (Nov. 23) in the Galen Center.