The clash between the No. 4 USC Trojans and the No. 22 Michigan State Spartans was a highly anticipated matchup in women's college basketball and did not disappoint. USC emerged victorious with an 83-75 win, propelled by standout performances from JuJu Watkins and Kiki Iriafen.
JuJu Watkins showcased her scoring prowess once again by dropping 28 points against the Spartans, further solidifying her status as a dominant force in the Big Ten. Watkins, who leads the conference in scoring, has been a consistent scoring threat for the Trojans throughout the season, recording six games with at least 28 points. Her performance against Michigan State underscored her ability to rise to the occasion in pivotal games, especially against ranked opponents.
Teammate Kiki Iriafen was equally instrumental in USC's victory, contributing 24 points and 10 rebounds. Iriafen's impressive double-double performance complemented Watkins' scoring output, highlighting the Trojans' dynamic duo on the court. USC's depth and resilience were on full display as they fended off a late surge from Michigan State to secure the win.
The Spartans, led by Grace VanSlooten's career-high 29 points and Julia Ayrault's double-double, put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short against the Trojans. Despite Michigan State's push in the fourth quarter, highlighted by a 15-4 run to cut the lead to six points, USC's ability to respond with timely baskets sealed the victory.
A key takeaway from the game was Michigan State's struggle from beyond the arc, as they shot just 1 of 13 from 3-point range. In contrast, USC's strong inside presence and efficient scoring propelled them to victory. The Trojans' win also secured them a double-bye in the upcoming Big Ten tournament, underscoring their position as conference leaders with two regular-season games remaining.
Heading into the final stretch of the season, USC's win over Michigan State serves as a testament to their resilience and ability to deliver under pressure. With Watkins leading the charge and Iriafen providing crucial contributions, the Trojans are poised for a strong finish as they gear up to face more ranked opponents in the coming games.
Looking ahead, both teams have upcoming home games on Sunday, with Michigan State taking on Indiana and USC facing No. 25 Illinois in their last regular-season home game. As the season nears its conclusion, the Trojans will look to maintain their momentum and solidify their position as a formidable contender in the conference.
Overall, USC's victory over Michigan State was a showcase of their talent, depth, and ability to come through in crucial moments. With Watkins and Iriafen leading the way, the Trojans are primed for success as they navigate the challenges ahead in pursuit of their championship aspirations in the Big Ten and beyond.
