Southern California sophomore guard JuJu Watkins and UConn senior guard Paige Bueckers head the list of finalists for the 2025 John Wooden Award that goes to women's college basketball's most outstanding player, the Los Angeles Athletic Club announced Tuesday night. UCLA junior center Lauren Betts, Texas sophomore forward Madison Booker and Notre Dame sophomore guard Hannah Hidalgo also have been named Wooden Award finalists. The quintet also has earned spots on the 10-person Wooden All-America team. Watkins, who already has earned the Associated Press Player of the Year award, averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists before tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee during the NCAA Tournament's second round.
JuJu Watkins, Paige Bueckers top Wooden Award finalists
