#1 UCLA vs #6 USC NCAAW Pick: Top-Ranked Bruins Face Rivalry Clash (Feb 13)

• #1 UCLA improved to 23-0 following their 62-52 win over Oregon.
• USC dominated #8 Ohio State, winning 84-63, and rising to #6.
• These two teams last met on March 8, in a game that USC won 80-70.

With the Pac-12 no more, the Bruins and Trojans carry their thrilling rivalry into the Big 10. In our UCLA vs USC pick, JuJu Watkins and USC will aim to hand UCLA their first defeat of the season.

UCLA Fights to Stay Unbeaten

UCLA has spent the entire season ranked in the top-5, and most of it at #1. The Bruins are the only undefeated team left, having weathered the storm of a tough schedule. In a hostile environment at USC, they’ll face their toughest test. UCLA won their last three games against top-10 teams by double digits.

The Bruins have one of the deepest rosters in college basketball, led by Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice. The two have chemistry and experience leading the team and will be crucial in UCLA’s chances of winning this game. The Bruins also boast a strong defense, making them difficult to overcome.

USC Aiming for More Good JuJu

In her second season at USC, the former #1 recruit and future #1 pick, JuJu Watkins, has only improved her game. Despite her scoring average falling from 27 ppg to 24, the guard is shooting 43% from the field over 40% from last season. She’s also averaging one less turnover per game.

Watkins is improving with experience, but she also owes her teammates this year for helping aid her progress. A more talented USC roster has taken the pressure off of Watkins as the only scoring threat. Senior transfer, Kiki Iraifen, has been one of the biggest difference makers this year.

UCLA Bruins vs USC Trojans Pick

Almost all undefeated teams fall at some point in college basketball. Despite UCLA blowing past South Carolina, Maryland, and Ohio State, I expect this game to be much closer. They’ll face a contentious atmosphere on the road against their rivals and will be well-matched in talent and depth. Ultimately, I see Watkins leading the Trojans to a narrow victory.