USC Shines in Close Victory Against UConn
HARTFORD, Conn. – The stage was set for an exhilarating encounter on December 21, 2024, as the #7 ranked USC Trojans faced off against the #4 ranked UConn Huskies in Hartford. In a thrilling matchup, USC managed to hold off UConn, clinching a narrow 72-70 victory.
JuJu Watkins emerged as the standout player, scoring 25 points. This game marked a rematch of last year’s Elite Eight contest, which UConn had won, heightening the stakes for both teams.
UConn’s Paige Bueckers, another star in women’s basketball, contributed significantly with 22 points, setting the stage for a competitive duel between the two players throughout the match.
Game Highlights
Despite entering halftime with an 18-point lead, USC found themselves under pressure in the second half as UConn rallied impressively. The Huskies closed the gap and tied the game at 67 with just over a minute remaining. A crucial layup by Rayah Marshall, following a key pass from Watkins, allowed USC to regain the lead at 69-67.
As the game unfolded, both teams traded points with intense defense and strategic maneuvers. Watkins, demonstrating composure under pressure, converted pivotal free throws down the stretch, maintaining USC’s slim lead.
Final Possession Drama
In the game’s dying seconds, UConn had a chance to tie when Sarah Strong was fouled attempting a three-pointer. With the clock ticking down, Strong made one of three critical free throws, but her subsequent attempt to level the score fell short, sealing UConn’s fate.
Implications of the Game
This victory is significant for USC as it marks their response to a previous loss against Notre Dame. The triumph not only enhances their standing in the rankings but also sets a momentum shift as they approach upcoming games against other ranked teams.
For UConn, this defeat indicates their struggle against elite teams this season, with an 0-2 record against top-10 opponents thus far.
Looking Ahead
USC will look to build on this success as they prepare to host Michigan on December 29, while UConn will face Providence the same day, aiming to bounce back from this narrow defeat.
As the season progresses, the dynamics in women’s college basketball continue to evolve, making every game crucial for these top-ranked teams.
