The Big Ten women’s basketball landscape is about to look very 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 her team, but for the entire conference, which is now scrambling to redefine its hierarchy. But here's where it gets controversial: is the Big Ten still a powerhouse without JuJu, or has her injury opened the door for a new era of dominance? UCLA, fresh off their historic Final Four run and boasting the preseason Player of the Year, Lauren Betts, is the clear favorite. But don’t count out Maryland, whose deep roster and Sweet 16 experience make them a serious contender. And this is the part most people miss: Southern Cal, despite losing JuJu, isn’t throwing in the towel. They’ve got a secret weapon in freshman phenom Jazzy Davidson, who’s already being hailed as the next big thing. Will she be enough to keep the Trojans competitive? Or will UCLA’s star-studded lineup and Maryland’s depth prove too much for the rest of the conference? The season ahead promises fierce competition, unexpected storylines, and plenty of debate. Is the Big Ten still the Big Ten without JuJu Watkins? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
The impact of JuJu’s absence is undeniable. Last season, the Big Ten sent a record 12 teams to the NCAA Tournament, a testament to its depth and talent. But without her, the conference loses one of its most dynamic players—someone who, as UCLA coach Cori Close put it, ‘makes everyone around her better.’ Close, whose Bruins are now the team to beat, acknowledges the void but remains focused on her squad’s potential. With Betts and Kiki Rice leading the charge, UCLA is poised for another deep tournament run. ‘The Big Ten prepares you for anything,’ Close said, highlighting the conference’s diverse styles and competitive nature. But Maryland isn’t backing down. Coach Brenda Frese has assembled a formidable roster, blending returning stars like Kaylene Smikle and Bri McDaniel with fresh talent like transfer Yarden Garzon. ‘We’re here to compete,’ Frese declared, emphasizing her team’s hunger for a conference title.
Meanwhile, Southern Cal is reinventing itself under coach Lindsay Gottlieb. ‘No one can replace JuJu,’ Gottlieb admitted. ‘But we’re building something special.’ Enter Jazzy Davidson, the 18-year-old prodigy from Oregon. Gottlieb is confident she’ll make an immediate impact, both for the Trojans and on the national stage. ‘Jazzy is a game-changer,’ she said. ‘She’s got the skills, the mindset, and the drive to take us to the next level.’ But will it be enough to challenge UCLA and Maryland? Only time will tell.
As the season tips off, one thing is clear: the Big Ten is in for a wild ride. With JuJu watching from the sidelines, the conference’s dynamics have shifted dramatically. UCLA may be the favorite, but Maryland and Southern Cal are lurking, ready to pounce. And let’s not forget the other contenders—teams like Iowa and Ohio State, who are eager to prove they belong in the conversation. So, who will rise to the top in this new era of Big Ten basketball? Will UCLA dominate, or will an underdog emerge? And what role will Jazzy Davidson play in Southern Cal’s quest for relevance? The stage is set for a season full of drama, surprises, and, most importantly, incredible basketball. What’s your take? Do you think the Big Ten can maintain its dominance without JuJu Watkins? Or is this the year the conference crown changes hands? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts!
