Sports analyst Robin Lundberg examined JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers’ performances in the game between the USC Trojans and the UConn Huskies at the XL Center on Saturday. Lundberg praised Watkins for her impact, focus, and playmaking abilities in the first half of the game, claiming that the USC sophomore is also benefiting off “favorable whistles” this season.
He shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel following his review of a clip of Watkins’ highlights from the marquee matchup.
“One thing I did notice in the game is JuJu gets a real favorable whistle,” Lundberg said. “That’s going to help her going forward because she’s already getting a real favorable whistle at the college level. And I’m sure that will transfer over to the pros as well. She’s getting a bunch of her points from the free throw line oftentimes.”
Lundberg highlighted a recurring idea around free throws as he compared JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers’ seasons. The Trojans guard is currently averaging 8.3 free throw attempts per game, while the Huskies guard is only getting 2.8 attempts on the charity stripe, which is 0.1 less than her average number of free throw attempts last season.
Analyzing JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers’ performances
On Saturday, JuJu Watkins helped the Trojans redeem their season-ending 80-73 loss to Paige Bueckers and the Huskies in the NCAA tournament last year. In what could potentially be their final face-off on the collegiate level, Watkins and company notched the 72-70 win over Bueckers’ squad.
“It feels great to get the dub always,” Watkins said in an interview with ESPN. “I think it hit a little different knowing the history of last year and how they sent us home. It was just great to see everybody that came out. I don’t think I’ve ever played in front of so many people.”
Watkins started strong and finished the game with 25 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three blocks. She shot 56.3% from the field and 75% from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Bueckers scored 22 points and grabbed three rebounds and two assists. The UConn senior shot 40.9% from the field and 25% from the three-point area.
The Trojans led 42-19 after the first half, but the Huskies were able to come back from the 23-point deficit later in the game. However, USC still managed to keep their tight lead behind the game clock and seal the win after Sarah Strong missed two crucial free throws and a final three-point shot attempt.
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