The past few weeks have been rough for USC, starting with JuJu Watkins suffering a torn ACL in the NCAA Tournament’s second round and culminating in another Elite Eight exit at the hands of UConn mirroring last year’s disappointment.
Adding to their woes, freshman guard Avery Howell has announced her decision to enter the transfer portal.
“I want to sincerely thank USC, my coaches, teammates, and the Trojan family for their unwavering support and the incredible experiences I’ve had here,” Howell wrote. “This school has shaped me both as an athlete and a person, and I will always treasure the relationships and memories. After much reflection, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal to find the best fit for my future. This wasn’t an easy choice, but I believe it’s the right one for my journey.”
Howell, a five-star recruit from USC’s highly regarded 2025 class alongside Kennedy Smith and Kayleigh Heckel, had a slow start but eventually became an integral piece of Lindsay Gottlieb’s squad. She averaged 7.5 points and three rebounds on the season while leading the team in three-point shooting at 39.9%. Her second-half surge saw her numbers rise to 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting an impressive 45.7% from deep. Howell also delivered standout performances in March Madness, including an 18-point, eight-rebound, four-steal effort in USC’s Sweet 16 win over Kansas State.
Though her reasons for transferring remain unknown, Howell instantly becomes one of the top shooters available in the portal, leaving a significant hole for USC to fill.
Where Does USC Go From Here?
Howell’s departure is just one of several key losses for the Trojans. Star forward Kiki Iriafen and center Rayah Marshall are heading to the WNBA, while starting point guard Talia von Oelhoffen and reserve center Clarice Akunwafo are set to graduate. Additionally, guard Aaliyah Gayles has entered the transfer portal.
Watkins’ recovery timeline remains uncertain, but if she misses most or all of the 2025-26 season, USC could be without four starters and nearly 78% of its scoring output, including four of its top five scorers. The only returning players who averaged more than 15 minutes per game are Smith and Heckel.
Potential Rebuilding Paths
USC does have a major talent boost on the way in Jasmine “Jazzy” Davidson, the No. 3 overall prospect in the class of 2025, according to 247 Sports. The 6-foot-1 forward showcased her abilities in the McDonald’s All-American Game with 12 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. However, beyond Davidson, USC has not secured another top-100 recruit.
Smith, Heckel, and Davidson form a promising young core, but without Watkins, they aren’t title contenders an expectation that has grown in Los Angeles after consecutive Elite Eight appearances.
As Gottlieb and her staff work the transfer portal, they face a crucial decision:
Go all-in on immediate impact players like Ta’Niya Latson, Olivia Miles, Cotie McMahon, or Serah Williams, aiming to maintain USC’s competitive edge.
Prioritize long-term stability by targeting younger players who could contribute now but still be around when Watkins returns, such as Kate Koval, Clara Silva, or Sa’Myah Smith.
USC will remain a competitive force, but their ceiling next season hinges on the reinforcements they secure through the portal a reflection of the new reality in college basketball.
Be the first to comment