JuJu Watkins of USC has made headlines by breaking another record previously held by Caitlin Clark.
On November 15, 2024, during a game against Santa Clara, Watkins scored her 1,000th career point in just 38 games, surpassing Clark’s record of 40 games for reaching this milestone12.
This achievement marks Watkins as the fastest Power Five player to reach 1,000 points, solidifying her status as a rising star in women’s college basketball3.
In the same game, Watkins demonstrated her scoring prowess by finishing with 22 points, leading USC to an 81-50 victory1. Her performance not only showcased her scoring ability but also contributed to the Trojans’ perfect start to the season, now standing at 4-02.
Coach Lindsay Gottlieb praised Watkins for joining elite company with her record-breaking feat, referencing the legendary Cheryl Miller as a benchmark for greatness at USC2.
Just two weeks later, on November 30, Watkins broke yet another record by becoming the fastest player to achieve 15 career games scoring at least 30 points over the past decade. She accomplished this in only 41 games, while Clark needed 42 games to reach the same milestone46. In a recent game against Saint Louis, Watkins scored 34 points, further establishing her dominance on the court and improving USC’s record to 6-14.
Watkins’ rapid ascent in college basketball has drawn significant comparisons to Clark, who is celebrated as one of the all-time greats in the sport. Despite the pressure of these comparisons, Watkins remains focused on her individual growth and team success. She stated that she aims to play her game and not be overwhelmed by expectations46.
As she continues to break records, discussions about Watkins potentially surpassing Clark’s all-time scoring record of 3,951 points are gaining traction. With at least two more years at USC ahead of her, many speculate whether she can achieve this ambitious goal while also leading her team to a national championship35.
Watkins has already made a significant impact in her freshman year by averaging an impressive 27.1 points per game and setting multiple records5. Her ability to score and contribute across various facets of the game positions her as a formidable competitor in women’s basketball.
With each milestone she achieves, JuJu Watkins not only cements her legacy but also inspires a new generation of players. As fans and analysts eagerly watch her journey unfold, it’s clear that she is poised to leave an indelible mark on college basketball.
