JuJu Watkins’ return to the floor after a 588-day layoff drew the spotlight, but USC’s 100-68 win over UNLV belonged just as much to Saniyah Hall.
The five-star freshman wasted no time making her mark in her college debut. Hall scored 22 points on 7-of-8 shooting, knocked down 3 of 4 from beyond the arc and filled up the stat sheet with a team-high seven rebounds, two blocks, two steals and an assist. She finished second on the Trojans in scoring behind sophomore guard Jazzy Davidson.
Watkins, back in competitive action for the first time since tearing her ACL in March 2025, posted 21 points in a solid opener of her own. She gave Associated Press No. 3 USC three players with at least 20 points, though she missed all five of her three-point attempts.
That didn’t slow the Trojans against UNLV. Hall and Davidson were almost automatic, combining for just two missed field goals. Hall’s best stretch came in the opening quarter, when she created space off the dribble for one three-pointer and then buried a step-back triple at the buzzer.
Monday’s performance only added to the buzz around USC’s guard group. Hall, Watkins and Davidson had already flashed their firepower in an exhibition against Cal on Oct. 25, when they combined for 59 points and Hall led the way with 23.
The Trojans still have tune-ups ahead against Utah State and Charleston before their showdown with No. 1 South Carolina on Nov. 15.
Watkins is being brought along carefully, with coach Lindsay Gottlieb keeping her on a minutes restriction as she gets back into game shape. As the AP noted, “Her physical progress has been encouraging,” with timing and comfort expected to improve through competition.
For USC, that means the return of Watkins is only part of the story. Hall’s debut suggested the Trojans may have another major weapon ready right now.
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