In a thrilling matchup that kept fans on the edge of their seats, No. 4 Southern California displayed their resilience as they overcame an 11-point deficit to secure a hard-fought 73-66 victory over Indiana. JuJu Watkins led the charge with 22 points, while Rayah Marshall’s double-double performance of 13 points and 10 rebounds proved crucial in the Trojans’ 13th consecutive win.
The game was a rollercoaster of momentum swings, with Southern Cal trailing early before clawing their way back to take control. Watkins sealed the deal with a clutch buzzer-beating 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter, sparking a decisive 12-0 run in the final period that propelled the Trojans to victory.
Despite a valiant effort from Indiana, led by Sydney Parrish’s 16 points and 10 rebounds, the Hoosiers ultimately fell short as Southern Cal’s defensive tenacity and composure down the stretch proved insurmountable. Chloe Moore-McNeil chipped in 13 points for Indiana, but it was not enough to overcome the Trojans’ determined performance.
Southern California’s ability to weather the storm and showcase their championship pedigree was evident throughout the game. From battling back from an early deficit to executing key plays in crunch time, the Trojans demonstrated why they are considered one of the nation’s top teams.
On the other side, Indiana showcased their trademark grit and hustle, exemplifying the essence of Indiana basketball. Despite their sharpshooting struggles from beyond the arc, the Hoosiers’ defensive intensity and relentless effort kept them in the game until the final buzzer.
The key moment of the game came when JuJu Watkins, who had been relatively quiet for most of the contest, ignited a game-changing run with her timely 3-pointer. Her ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most underscored her importance to the Trojans’ success.
A telling statistic from the game was Indiana’s reliance on 3-point shooting, which faltered as they converted just 8 of 29 attempts. This inefficiency from long range played into Southern Cal’s hands, as they capitalized on their inside presence to outscore the Hoosiers in the paint.
Looking ahead, the Trojans will aim to carry their winning momentum into their upcoming clash with Purdue, continuing their Midwestern swing with confidence and determination. Meanwhile, Indiana will regroup and refocus as they prepare to face Oregon, eager to bounce back from a tough home defeat.
In a season filled with ups and downs, Southern California’s resiliency and poise under pressure have been defining factors in their success. As they navigate the challenges of a competitive conference and national expectations, the Trojans’ ability to come together as a team and execute in critical moments will be key to their continued dominance on the court.
For Indiana, the loss serves as a learning opportunity and a chance to grow stronger
