Jazzy Davidson talks about NCAA Tournament in Q&A…
Calling Jazzy Davidson the best freshman ladies’s basketball participant in the nation doesn’t totally convey the essence of what she’s meant to her group.
Not only has the USC guard led the Trojans in factors, rebounds, assists and blocks, she’s also immediately established herself as a selfless chief who doesn’t need to come off the court no matter the circumstances.
During the Big Ten Tournament, she performed through a shoulder injury that saved her from lifting her capturing arm.
USC star Jazzy Davidson (9) was named National Freshman of the Year by The Athletic. Getty Images
During the Big Ten Tournament, she performed through a shoulder injury that saved her from lifting her capturing arm. Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
Named The Athletic’s National Freshman of the Year, the accolades are only just starting to pile up for a participant with limitless potential after averaging 17.6 factors, 5.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2 blocks per sport in her first faculty season.
As the ninth-seeded Trojans ready to open the NCAA Tournament on Saturday in Columbia, South Carolina, against eighth-seeded Clemson, Davidson took time to reply questions from The California Post in an exclusive interview:
What was it like to get the news that your shoulder was OK and how has it been feeling since?
“It was great to hear everything was clear! Knowing I’d get the chance to play in my first March Madness was a huge relief, and it’s been feeling amazing ever since.”
You’ve had an unbelievable freshman season, immediately establishing your self as one of the top gamers in the nation. What had been your expectations for your play this season and how carefully has it matched what you had been hoping for?
“I don’t think I had a specific expectation for how the season would go. I just focused on doing whatever I could to help my team win, and I feel like I’ve made a lot of progress this season. That’s something I’m definitely proud of.”
What’s been your favourite side of being half of this group?
“Getting to know all the girls and building stronger relationships with the coaches has been amazing. The connections I’ve made with this team this season have been truly invaluable.”
USC’s JuJu Watkins and Jazzy Davidson (9) hope to play together next season. Getty Images
What’s been your favourite sport so far and what made it particular?
“I’d say one of my favorite moments was our first away game at N.C. State. We played them at the (Charlotte) Hornets arena, and it was a really fun game. It was our first road experience, and we ended up winning on a buzzer-beater, which made it even more exciting.”
How have Lindsay Gottlieb and the Trojans teaching employees elevated your sport?
“Every day in practice, they’ve helped elevate my game and broaden my understanding. They’ve shown me different aspects of the game that I didn’t fully see when I first arrived, and they’ve been incredible throughout that process.”
You’ve been good buddies with UCLA freshman Sienna Betts for years now. Have you been in a position to spend time with her off the court this season, and what kinds of issues have you ever performed together?
“On our off days, we try to spend time together. Going out to dinner, heading to the beach, having sleepovers, and just enjoying some girl time.”
USC star Jazzy Davidson is buddies with UCLA freshman Sienna Betts. They like to hang around at the seaside when not enjoying faculty basketball. Jazzy Davidson / Instagram
What’s it like to be such close buddies with a Bruin, and do you both like to have enjoyable about the rivalry?
“The rivalry is great! It’s one of the best in the country. But we’ve been really close since we were about 14, so we never let that get in the way of our friendship. When we’re together, we don’t really talk about basketball much.”
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We’ve seen videos of JuJu Watkins back capturing as she closes in on her return from her injury. What’s it been like seeing her get nearer to enjoying again, and do you ever daydream about being on the court with her?
“It’s been incredible. Watching her progress and seeing her gradually do more and more as the season has gone on has been so rewarding. She works so hard, and I know there’s a ton to look forward to next season.”
Coach Gottlieb talked about rebounding, ball motion, getting open pictures and being the hardest group for 40 minutes as areas for enchancment. How has the group been doing in those areas in apply?
“There’s definitely been a big emphasis on those areas in practice, especially during the break between the Big Ten Tournament and our first NCAA Tournament game. I think we’ve made huge strides as a group, and I’m really excited to show that growth.”
What else do you assume the group wants to do to get back on a profitable streak and make a run over the next few weeks?
“As Coach emphasized, we need to focus on rebounding, moving the ball and staying locked in on the scout. If we take care of those things, the rest will fall into place.”
Did you dream about enjoying in the NCAA Tournament growing up, and what are you excited about the most?
“Yeah, I think that’s something every basketball player who dreams of playing in college hopes for. It’s one of my favorite times of the year to watch. So being able to play in my first NCAA Tournament game is really exciting and definitely full circle! I’m just looking forward to being in the moment and taking it all in.”
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