LOS ANGELES — USC women’s basketball snapped their four-game losing streak with an 83-57 win over Purdue Sunday afternoon at the Galen Center. Kara Dunn led the way with 29 points, breathing new life into the Women of Troy.
Despite the losses, Dunn has consistently spoken hope into her team, embraced the necessary growing pains and even held herself accountable. She let her skills do the talking on the court, delivering her best performance as a Trojan. From the start, Dunn was automatic. She finished 12-17 from the field and shot 66.7% from long range, drilling four three-pointers.
Advertisement
“I’m grateful to be able to step up in this position,” Dunn said. “I really hope I keep it going throughout the season.”
One of USC’s top defenders, Kennedy Smith, returned to the lineup after a lower-leg injury sidelined her since January 6. Smith has been a vital piece of the roster and her absence forced her teammates to adjust to playing different positions. She contributed six assists as the team’s assist leader and added two blocks in her first game back.
“She’s a great leader. She has all of our backs and she’s super experienced. So it’s been really nice having that kind of voice for me as a freshman,” Jazzy Davidson said about Smith. “With her leadership, it’s really helped us get through that and I think our best days are ahead of us.”
From tip-off to the final buzzer, USC was in full control of the game. Scoring 30 points off of Purdue’s turnovers, they turned errors into easy buckets. They showcased their strong defensive skills more, a topic that was emphasized in recent interviews about the changes the team needs to make. USC also dominated in the paint, scoring 40 points near the rim. The Galen Center was electric, with fans and the Women of Troy alumni in attendance. Alumni like Cheryl Miller were recognized on the court for their historic contributions to USC women’s basketball.
Advertisement
The win was truly a team effort. Londynn Jones finished with 15 points, while Jazzy Davidson added 13, helping balance the scoring across the roster. Coach Gottlieb commended several players for stepping up as leaders, emphasizing that the team didn’t see past losses as setbacks but as opportunities to learn and keep moving forward.
“I think I’m most proud of just the fight and what we’re trying to become,” Gottlieb said. “I think it’s the growth trajectory.”
This crucial win gave USC the momentum they needed as they prepare to head to the Midwest to face Michigan State and Michigan, two top-15 ranked teams. Keeping their foot on the gas, USC looks forward to their next matchups, eager to grow and compete at a high level as a team.
