No. 4 USC delivered a statement in the crosstown rivalry, defeating No. 2 UCLA 80-67 on Saturday to clinch a share of the Big Ten regular-season title and sweep the season series.
The Trojans set the tone early, opening with a 9-0 run while UCLA missed its first eight shots. By the end of the first quarter, USC led 23-20, with JuJu Watkins already tallying 13 points. Watkins, the nation’s top freshman, was dominant throughout, finishing with 30 points, 5 assists, and 3 blocks, anchoring both USC’s offense and defense.
USC’s lead grew to 14 at halftime, fueled by efficient shooting and disruptive defense that forced 16 Bruin turnovers. UCLA, known for its dominant rebounding and inside presence, struggled to establish either, shooting just 36% from the field. Despite a brief third-quarter surge from UCLA, the Trojans responded with a 7-0 run to close the period, protecting a double-digit lead they would not relinquish.
The Bruins got 16 points from Kiki Rice and 11 points and 11 rebounds from Lauren Betts, but it wasn’t enough to offset USC’s balanced attack. Kiki Iriafen contributed 17 points and 9 rebounds for the Trojans, while Kennedy Smith added 7 points and a key 3-pointer during USC’s second-quarter burst.
With the win, USC improves to 26-2 overall and 16-1 in Big Ten play, tying UCLA atop the standings. The Trojans also improve to 5-1 against top-10 teams this season, making a strong case for a top seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
The rivals could meet again soon, with both teams eyeing a potential rematch in the Big Ten Tournament.
