The women’s NCAA Tournament has been fun to watch so far. We are watching many talented players and teams play basketball, especially the freshmen. There are a few first-year students making a name for themselves in the tournament.
JuJu Watkins, USC Trojans
Let’s take a closer look at JuJu Watkins, the standout freshman from the USC Trojans. She’s had a fantastic season, averaging 26.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game on 40.7% field-goal shooting. In her recent game against Kansas, she scored 25 points, grabbed ten rebounds, and dished out five assists. With 861 points and counting, Watkins holds the USC single-season scoring record. Her journey to this point has been remarkable, and she’s definitely a player to watch.
Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Hidalgo is having a stellar freshmen season, averaging 22.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. In the first round against Kent State, she showcased her versatility by scoring 14 points, dishing out 11 assists, and making six steals. She had 19 points, four rebounds, four assists, and four steals in the second round. While she did not lead her team in scoring, she did all the other things to help her team win. At 5’6, Hidalgo plays bigger than her size; she loves to attack the basket and get to the free-throw line and is not scared to rebound.
MiLaysia Fulwiley, South Carolina
Fulwiley has really played well in the NCAA Tournament. She has upped her scoring from 12.2 points per game to 18.5 points per game. In November, Fulwiley went through tough times when she benched for a night, focusing on defense. Fulwiley’s turnaround started in the SEC Tournament when she was named MVP. The point guard is an exciting player to watch
Madison Booker, Texas Longhorns
Booker is a key player for the Texas Longhorns, averaging 16.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. In the Longhorns’ opening tournament game against Drexel, she scored only eight points but made a significant impact with 14 assists. In the second round against Alabama, Booker stepped up her scoring and scored 21 points on 56.3% shooting. Booker’s scoring and playmaking abilities will be crucial as the tournament progresses.
Even with Caitlin Clark going to the WNBA, women’s college basketball is still loaded with talent and is in good hands.
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