SPOKANE, Wash. -- In an electrifying atmosphere following Saturday’s Sweet 16 victory over Kansas State, the USC women's basketball team received a surprise FaceTime call from their star player, JuJu Watkins. Although she was watching from Los Angeles due to an unfortunate season-ending ACL tear, Watkins’ spirit was felt all the way in the locker room as her teammates celebrated their first consecutive Elite Eight appearances since 1982-84.

Watkins, an extraordinary talent who transformed the USC program, was a frontrunner for national player of the year before her injury against Mississippi State sent shockwaves through the sports community. Her absence will be felt deeply as USC prepares to face the formidable UConn Huskies, led by the equally talented Paige Bueckers, in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s Elite Eight meeting.

Amid the celebration, USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb's young daughter Reese chimed in, blowing kisses to Watkins through the screen, puzzled by the fact that the star was injured yet so buoyant. Gottlieb reassured her, saying, "She's still hurt, but she's happy and with us today."

The upcoming matchup has fans buzzing with excitement, having marked it as one to watch since the bracket's release. However, the stakes feel particularly heavy; both teams are approaching this game under different circumstances than last year. For UConn and Coach Geno Auriemma, the challenges of injuries are all too familiar—Bueckers herself has journeyed through a series of setbacks, including a ACL tear that sidelined her for an entire season.

Auriemma and Bueckers reached out to Watkins after her injury, demonstrating a deep understanding of the mental and emotional toll of such experiences. Bueckers conveyed her sympathy, stating, "Our heart breaks for her," and offered her assistance, be it emotional support or advice.

This camaraderie among competitors highlights the unwavering resolve that defines both players. Auriemma commented on the strength found through adversity, emphasizing how athletes like Watkins and Bueckers not only bounce back but return stronger and more determined. Bueckers echoed this sentiment, confidently asserting that Watkins’ diligent work ethic will propel her through the recovery process.

As the tournament intensifies, Bueckers has showcased her incredible prowess, tallying 74 points in just the last two games, including a staggering 40-point performance against Tennessee. UConn, looking to capture a championship title for the first time since 2016, feels a sense of urgency with Bueckers leading the charge.

Their last encounter in December saw USC narrowly edge out UConn 72-70, where Watkins shined brightly with 25 points. However, this time around both teams have adapted to new dynamics. UConn’s Azzi Fudd, returning from injury herself, acknowledged that she wasn't fully prepared for that game. However, her resurgence and newfound confidence promise that she is back in form for this clash.

The Trojans now find themselves adjusting to the absence of their star player while still aiming high. They have put their trust in senior Kiki Iriafen, a pivotal addition from the transfer portal, who is expected to rally the troops. USC’s freshmen, initially given modest roles, have stepped up remarkably—evident in their combined 37-point performance against Kansas State—solidifying their drive for victory.

As they prepare for this pivotal matchup, both teams are just 40 minutes away from securing a spot in the Final Four, a feat that carries immense significance for each program. The weight of experience leans towards UConn, but it’s the unexpected nature of March Madness that creates thrilling opportunities. As coach Auriemma aptly put it, "Some players are going to rise to the occasion, and some are going to shrink. It's just the nature of it."

With the stakes as high as ever, fans can expect heart, determination, and resilience from both teams, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter in women’s collegiate basketball.