Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud in awe of Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins' intense showdown

By John Ezekiel Hirro

Modified Dec 22, 2024 05:28 GMT

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WNBA stars Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud were among those impressed by Saturday night’s highly anticipated women’s basketball showdown between Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins. The UConn vs. USC game lived up to expectations, with both players putting on an incredible performance in the thrilling contest.

USC led most of the game, at one point holding an 18-point advantage. However, UConn mounted a strong comeback, starting with a 20-13 third quarter, which made it a tight game in the final minutes.

With 2:24 remaining, Bueckers tied the game at 67 with a layup, but USC quickly regained the lead with a layup from Rayah Marshall and a free throw from Watkins. Sarah Strong also scored a layup, and Watkins added two more free throws. UConn had chances to win at the buzzer but was unsuccessful.

Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud turned to X (formerly Twitter) to share their thoughts on the intense game.

“This game crazzyyyyy 🔥🔥🔥,” Copper said.

“THIS GAME,” Cloud wrote.

Bueckers and Watkins are two of the most followed players in college women’s basketball, with a level of fame akin to Caitlin Clark’s during her college career. Both stars delivered in the game, with Bueckers finishing with 22 points and Watkins recording 25 points, six rebounds and five assists.

UConn also saw strong performances from Sarah Strong, who had 22 points, 13 rebounds and five assists. The Huskies struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 6-for-23.

For USC, Kiki Iriafe contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds, while the Trojans were efficient from deep, going 9-for-16.

Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud to play in Unrivaled

Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud were able to catch the exciting UConn vs. USC game during their offseason. However, their break is coming to an end, as they are set to compete in the Unrivaled 3x3 basketball league, which will tip off on Jan. 17, 2025, in Miami.

Copper will join Chelsea Gray, Brittney Sykes, Lexie Hull, Angel Reese and Azura Stevens to play for Rose BC, while Cloud will team up with Brittney Griner, Satou Sabally, Marina Mabrey and Katie Lou Samuelson for Phantom BC.

The 2025 season of the 3x3 tournament will be held in Miami and will be broadcast on TNT and TruTV, as well as streamed on Max.