USC and UCLA have raced to the top of the “Best of the West” women’s basketball rankings, setting a competitive tone for the season. The Trojans boast an impressive nine wins in 12 games despite missing star player JuJu Watkins. Meanwhile, UCLA holds its spot as a formidable challenger.

USC Trojans star guard JuJu Watkins was forced to pause her basketball career after an ACL tear. In this piece, we explore how her hallmark intensity fuels each step of her rehab and keeps her hopeful about returning to the court.