USC's basketball team faced a tough end to their season following JuJu Watkins' injury, but freshman Kennedy Smith emerged as a key player in the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight, leading her team in scoring and defense. With multiple seniors departing, including All-American Kiki Iriafen, there's uncertainty about the team's future. However, the performances from Smith and other freshmen signal hope for the program as they wait for Watkins' possible return from injury. USC's freshmen seem ready for larger roles, suggesting potential for a strong comeback.
"The freshmen, their performance ... was unbelievable. A preview of what's to come in the next few years." - Talia von Oelhoffen
"But hidden beneath the heartbreak of a tournament run cut short is hope for a future with Smith and her fellow freshmen holding down the fort until Watkins is healthy enough to return."
"Kennedy Smith gave everything she had in the wake of JuJu Watkins' injury, pacing the team in scoring against Kansas State."
"Many questions about the path forward for USC are still to be answered, not the least of which is whether Watkins sits out all of next season after tearing her ACL."
Collection
[
|
...
]