Big Ten Weekly Honors: JuJu Watkins and Olivia Olson Deliver Stellar Performances

The Big Ten Conference spotlighted two remarkable performances this week, recognizing JuJu Watkins of USC as Player of the Week and Olivia Olson of Michigan as Freshman of the Week. Both players delivered standout performances, solidifying their places among the conference's brightest stars.

Player of the Week: JuJu Watkins – USC

Sophomore guard JuJu Watkins has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, and a product of Sierra Canyon, Watkins had a record-breaking week that earned her the Big Ten Player of the Week honors for the first time in her career.

Watkins’ Week in Review:

• Two-game averages: 30.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks.
• Historic game vs. California Baptist:
  • Set a USC record with nine made three-pointers in a single game.
  • Scored a season-high 40 points, shooting a scorching 9-for-11 from beyond the arc.
  • Became only the third Big Ten women’s basketball player in the last 25 years to score 40 points while hitting nine three-pointers.
• Consistent excellence: Added 21 points in a dominant win over Oregon.

Watkins’ offensive explosion not only led USC to two key wins but also showcased her ability to perform under pressure. Her blend of scoring, leadership, and clutch shooting makes her one of the most electrifying players in the Big Ten.

• Follow-up against Oregon:
  • Delivered another standout performance with 21 points, leading the Trojans to a decisive victory.

Leadership and Impact:

Watkins' ability to rise to the occasion in pivotal moments has become a hallmark of her game. Against California Baptist, she showcased her shooting prowess, effortlessly finding her rhythm from deep and setting the tone for her team. Her 40-point outburst not only set a personal and program record but also highlighted her ability to dominate against strong competition. In the subsequent game against Oregon, Watkins continued to shine, providing consistent scoring and demonstrating her versatility as a two-way player.

Strengths:

• Scoring Versatility: Watkins excels at all three levels, whether it’s knocking down threes, finishing at the rim, or pulling up for mid-range jumpers.
• Clutch Factor: Her performance in high-pressure moments, including her record-breaking shooting, underscores her ability to deliver when it matters most.
• Leadership: As a sophomore, Watkins has embraced a leadership role, setting an example with her relentless work ethic and poise on the court.

Future Outlook:

With her first Big Ten Player of the Week honor under her belt, Watkins is poised for continued success. Her ability to combine elite scoring with impactful defense makes her a cornerstone for USC’s success and a potential star at the next level. As the season progresses, Watkins will undoubtedly be a player to watch in the race for conference honors and national recognition.

Freshman of the Week: Olivia Olson – Michigan

Michigan’s Olivia Olson, a guard from New Hope, Minnesota, made a statement this week with a stellar performance that earned her the Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors. A graduate of Benilde St. Margaret’s, Olson demonstrated poise, confidence, and a knack for delivering in critical moments.

Olson’s Key Contributions:

• Game-high 18 points in Michigan’s victory over Northwestern.
• Pulled down six rebounds and recorded a block in an all-around effort.
• Started the fourth quarter with a solo 8-0 run, erasing Michigan’s deficit and shifting momentum in the Wolverines’ favor.
• Played an impressive 36 minutes, showcasing her stamina and reliability.

This is Olson’s first Big Ten Freshman of the Week award, and her performance suggests it won’t be her last. With her ability to control the game’s tempo, make clutch plays, and contribute defensively, Olson has quickly become an integral part of Michigan’s lineup.

The Future of Big Ten Women’s Basketball

JuJu Watkins and Olivia Olson have set a high bar for their peers with their performances this week. Watkins’ record-breaking offensive output and Olson’s ability to deliver in crunch time highlight their immense potential to shape the narratives of their respective teams.

Why Watkins Stands Out:

• A trailblazer for USC, Watkins has already proven herself capable of rewriting the record books. Her ability to score in bunches and lead her team under pressure makes her a cornerstone for the Trojans.

Why Olson Excels:

• Olson’s maturity and ability to execute in crucial moments speak volumes about her future. As a freshman, her leadership and basketball IQ are well beyond her years, ensuring a bright future for Michigan.

What’s Next?

As Watkins and Olson continue to impress, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how their contributions shape the season. Both players represent the next wave of talent in Big Ten women’s basketball, and their performances this week are just the beginning.