No. 1 South Carolina and No. 3 USC Set for Third Showdown in 12 Months; JuJu Watkins to Return
No. 1 South Carolina and No. 3 USC are set to play each other for the third time in the past 12 months, with star player JuJu Watkins returning for the matchup.

Minot Bismarck Dickinson, ND, November 10, 2026 — The highly anticipated basketball rivalry between No. 1 South Carolina and No. 3 USC is set to culminate in their third meeting within the last 12 months. This upcoming contest marks another chapter in a closely watched series between two top-tier programs.
The matchup will feature the return of star player JuJu Watkins for USC, a key factor for the team’s performance. Her presence on the court is expected to significantly influence the game’s dynamic.
This will be the third time these two formidable teams have faced each other in a period of approximately one year. The previous encounters have established a competitive and compelling narrative for fans and analysts alike. Details regarding the specific dates, locations, or outcomes of these prior matchups were not provided in the trend summary. Similarly, information about coaches, season records, or the stakes of this particular game, beyond the team rankings, is not available from the source material.
The trend summary indicates that the game is scheduled, but specific scheduling details, such as the date and venue, have not been released. The return of JuJu Watkins is highlighted as a significant development for No. 3 USC, suggesting her previous absence or limited participation in recent games. Further information on the circumstances surrounding her return or her performance history was not specified.
The narrative of consecutive games between top-ranked teams is a notable aspect of the current sports landscape. This recurring fixture between South Carolina and USC underscores the competitive parity and intense rivalries that can develop in collegiate athletics. The lack of further details in the provided summary means that specific insights into team strategies, player statistics beyond JuJu Watkins’ return, or the historical context of the rivalry are not available for reporting.
Story summarized from the original created by DOUG FEINBERG, Associated Press on www.kxnet.com, see more information here.
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