Just when we thought the rivalry between the USC Trojans and UConn Huskies was already heated, before long it transformed into a showdown between Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins. These two have become fan favorites, and their impressive numbers only back it up. But along with the thrill of competing with each other, there will be another pressure. Well, this rivalry has also translated into a sold-out arena.

The XL Center, the second home for the University of Connecticut’s men’s and women’s basketball programs, with a capacity of 16,294, has been booked even before the season started. This shows the hype surrounding these two players and their teams. The first game in this epic home-and-home series tips-off on December 21, 2024, at UConn, with the second meeting in Los Angeles.

Their last encounter in the Elite 8 was a treat to watch, with the Huskies edging out the Trojans 80-73. In that game, Bueckers led with 28 points and 10 rebounds, while Watkins bagged 29 points and grabbed 10 boards. Throughout the season, the Huskies guard averaged 21.9, securing a spot in the Final Four for her team. On the other hand, Watkins averaged 27.1 points per game, which earned her the AP Freshman of the Year title among various other accolades.

By the way, this comes after the 2021 AP Player of the Year confirmed that she’ll be returning for a new season. After a tough year recovering from a torn ACL, she told fans, “Unfortunately, this will not be my last Senior Night because I’m coming back.” Adding to the buzz, both players have been unanimously named to the Associated Press preseason All-America team.

Appreciating Watkins, USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb said, “It’s really exciting for the game and its future.” Although there’s no denying that five-star guards have made a name for themselves, and they are special in their own way, they’ll still have to deal with meeting the standards Caitlin Clark has set. 

The next big stars in the making

CC has definitely set a bar. From leading her franchise in points, winning Rookie of the Year, setting multiple records, and finishing 4th in the MVP voting in her rookie WNBA season, she has done it all. Even during her college days, she was already a star, and making the most out of her NIL deals. All these college stars coming after her will be naturally pitted against her.

Respecting all that she has achieved, these young stars don’t deserve to feel like they are at gunpoint in each game they play. But unfortunately, it has already started. It seems like every time Bueckers or Watkins make headlines, fans and analysts alike pit them against the Indiana Fever star. 

Even NBA legend Charles Barkley recently stirred said, “Caitlin is a supernova. And JuJu is probably a better player.” Despite the pressure mounting, both college basketball stars have proven they can shine on their own. 

While Paige Bueckers is set to be the top contender for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Watkins is preparing to break more records in her sophomore year. The comparison will continue, but with talents like these two on the court, expect for the best.