In a tightly contested matchup on Saturday night, the No. 7 USC Trojans edged out the No. 4 UConn Huskies with a score of 72-70, marking USC’s impressive resilience in the face of a formidable comeback from UConn.
JuJu Watkins was the standout performer for USC, scoring 25 points and notching her 11th 20-point game of the season. However, her last few seconds of play almost allowed UConn to tie the game, as she inadvertently fouled UConn freshman Sarah Strong while attempting a 3-pointer. Strong stepped to the free-throw line with five seconds left, only to convert one of her three attempts, missing the last two crucial shots, contributing to USC’s win.
The game was characterized by fluctuating momentum, as USC initially led by as many as 18 points in the third quarter, but UConn rallied impressively, missing only by two points by game’s end. Here are some key takeaways from this gripping encounter:
Kennedy Smith and Azzi Fudd’s Return
Kennedy Smith made her return to the USC lineup after being sidelined due to a surgical procedure. She scored six points, contributed two rebounds, and demonstrated solid defensive skills in 12 minutes of play.
On UConn’s side, Azzi Fudd returned from a knee sprain but was limited to only one assist and one block in eight minutes, missing all four of her shooting attempts.
UConn’s Ongoing Offensive Struggles
The Huskies’ offensive woes, which surfaced during their previous loss to Notre Dame earlier this month, were evident again. Despite recently achieving record-breaking feats in 3-point shooting, they managed to convert only six of 23 attempts against USC.
UConn coach Geno Auriemma remarked, ‘I think we are a good 3-point shooting team, but I can’t keep saying that. We have to prove it, and not just one night.’
UConn’s slow start proved detrimental, despite finding better offensive rhythm in the second half. Strong and Paige Bueckers were the leading scorers for UConn, putting up 22 points each, but the team needed more consistency from the rest of the lineup.
Frontcourt Challenges for UConn
UConn’s frontcourt players continued to struggle, with Ice Brady having a particularly quiet night and contributing minimally. Coach Auriemma commented on the need for frontcourt players to develop their offensive skills, emphasizing the importance of being able to maintain pressure on opposing defenses.
Turnover Troubles for USC
USC has been flirting with danger due to turnovers, averaging 15.5 per game this season. They had seven turnovers in the first half but managed to limit the damage UConn could capitalize on. However, they ultimately allowed UConn to score 17 points off 18 turnovers, a statistic that will need addressing as the season progresses.
In conclusion, while USC celebrates their narrow victory, UConn must regroup and work on their offensive consistency. With tense matchups ahead, both teams will look to solidify their strategies and execute under pressure.
