The resurgence and growth of girls' high school basketball continues in Southern California, and the success of the Southern California women's basketball programs continues. UCLA And USC is an example of the changing landscape. The Bruins are ranked No. 3 and No. 18 in the Associated Press preseason national rankings.
Instead of players having to leave the area for exposure and quality training, they remain in Southern California, leading to UCLA and USC becoming national powers.
USC Recruitment Success Juju Watkins of Sierra Canyon was a huge turning point that led to others becoming Trojans, such as All-American Kennedy Smith from Etiwanda. UCLA Acquires McDonald's All-American Gabriela Jaques, when combined with national recruits, creates a foundation for others to build upon.
Both programs are nationally televised and the games sell out when they meet, something unheard of in years past. This shows the excitement that local stars bring to their teams.
UCLA coach Corey Close was a supporter of the development of women's basketball at the local level and joined USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb promote the sport despite the competition.
“Everyone talks about the rivalry,” Close said. “The reality is that we will grow sports together in this city.”
Gottlieb said the talent level hasn't changed much. What has changed is that players are choosing USC or UCLA instead of South Carolina, Connecticut or Tennessee.
And there's plenty of young talent ahead to recruit from Etiwanda, Ontario Christian, Corona Centennial and elsewhere.
This is a daily look at positive developments in school sports. To report any news, email [email protected].
