Full Breakdown
UCLA and USC Dominate Big Ten Women's Basketball Awards
3/4/2026, 3:16:43 AM
Major Honors for UCLA and USC Players
The Big Ten Conference recently announced its women's basketball awards, highlighting a significant achievement for both UCLA and USC. UCLA's Lauren Betts was named both the Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, marking a historic first in conference history for a player to win both awards in the same season. Additionally, UCLA's Cori Close received the Coach of the Year award, while Angela Dugalic was recognized as the Sixth Player of the Year. USC's Jazzy Davidson earned the title of Freshman of the Year, making her the first player from USC to achieve this honor.
Performance Highlights
Lauren Betts has been a standout player for UCLA, leading the team with averages of 16.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game, while also contributing 3.2 assists. This season marks her second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award. Under Coach Cori Close, UCLA achieved an impressive 18-0 record in Big Ten play, becoming only the fourth team in conference history to finish unbeaten. Close's leadership has been pivotal, as she previously swept national coach of the year awards in the previous season.
USC's Jazzy Davidson has also made a significant impact, leading her team with averages of 17.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 2.0 steals per game. Her performance has set her apart as a key player in her freshman year.
All-Conference Selections
In addition to the major awards, UCLA had multiple players recognized in the all-conference selections. Kiki Rice was named to the First Team, marking her fourth consecutive all-conference selection. Gabriela Jaquez and Kara Dunn were named to the Second Team, while Gianna Kneepkens received an Honorable Mention. The Bruins' success is reflected in their overall performance, with a current record of 28-1.
Upcoming Challenges
As the top seed in the Big Ten Tournament, UCLA is set to open its campaign against either ninth-seeded USC or eighth-seeded Washington. The tournament will be crucial for the Bruins as they aim to secure a national championship, with Betts expected to play a pivotal role in their success.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the accolades, some analysts noted that Betts' individual statistics have declined compared to the previous season, raising questions about her performance. While she remains a formidable defender, her scoring and rebounding averages have taken a step back. Critics argue that this could impact UCLA's chances in the upcoming tournament, emphasizing the need for Betts to regain her aggressive play.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s the first Big Ten Player of the Year award for Betts, with JuJu Watkins winning the award last year.” — Source
- “Close was awarded the 2019 media Pac-12 Coach of the Year honor and swept the national coach of the year awards in 2025 (AP, Naismith, USBWA and WBCA).” — Source
This year's Big Ten women's basketball awards underscore the dominance of UCLA and USC, setting the stage for an exciting postseason as both teams aim for further success.
