USC and UCLA Shine in Paris Season Opener

USC and UCLA deliver thrilling performances in Paris, igniting excitement for the new NCAA basketball season.

The 2024-25 NCAA basketball season kicked off with a thrilling doubleheader in Paris, where No. 3 USC edged out No. 20 Ole Miss 68-66 in a nail-biting contest. JuJu Watkins showcased her prowess, leading the Trojans with a stellar performance of 27 points and 10 rebounds, while Kiki Iriafen added a formidable 22 points and 13 rebounds to secure the victory. Ole Miss fought valiantly, with KK Deans scoring 19 points and Madison Scott contributing 14, but it wasn’t enough to overcome USC’s late-game surge.

In the second matchup, No. 5 UCLA triumphed over No. 17 Louisville with a final score of 66-59. Lauren Betts was a force to be reckoned with, recording an impressive double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds. Freshman guard Tajianna Roberts made a splash in her debut for Louisville, leading her team with 21 points, signaling her potential for the season ahead.

As the season unfolds, both USC and UCLA aim to replicate South Carolina`s remarkable undefeated run to the 2024 NCAA Championship. The Ole Miss Rebels, coming off a solid 24-12 record last season, are eager to make their mark in the SEC, with their home games set to take place at the iconic Tad Smith Coliseum in Oxford, Mississippi. For more details on the NCAAB schedule, check out the latest updates on NCAA Basketball Schedule.

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