USC Trojans Triumph Over California in Nail-Biting Finish
In an adrenaline-fueled clash, the No. 19 USC women's basketball team secured a narrow 61-57 victory against the California Golden Bears on December 21, 2025, during the 2025 Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic held at the Chase Center. Freshman sensation Jazzy Davidson emerged as the standout player, scoring a remarkable season-high of 24 points to steer her team to victory.
A Game of Defense and Determination
The game showcased stellar defensive plays as both teams battled fiercely. Despite facing pressure from Cal, who made a call for a timeout trailing by just two points in the final seconds, USC's Kennedy Smith executed a critical steal that solidified the Trojans' hold on the game. Davidson not only contributed significantly on the scoreboard but also embodied the team's resilience by maintaining composure under pressure, especially in the closing moments.
Key Performances Highlighting Team Dynamics
Davidson shone brightly, completing 9 of 21 field goals, including three crucial 3-pointers. She demonstrated her prowess on the court by scoring 14 of her points before halftime, enabling USC to lead 31-28 at the break. Alongside her, Londynn Jones made vital contributions, scoring several clutch points that assisted USC's late-game surge. Cal's Mjracle Sheppard and others worked tirelessly, but the Trojans' pressing defense proved too challenging, resulting in 18 turnovers that USC capitalized on for key points.
Emotional Rivalry: Coach vs. Old Team
This game bore an added layer of emotional rivalry, as fifth-year USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb faced her former team, Cal, which she previously led to its first Final Four in 2013. The reunion sparked heightened intensity and atmosphere that resonated with fans and players alike. The atmosphere crackled with eagerness, evident as fans rushed to glimpse injured star JuJu Watkins, a testament to the loyalty and enthusiasm surrounding this storied program.
Overcoming Challenges: Injury and Missed Opportunities
Cal faced its own trials, highlighted when Gisella Maul left the game due to injury, showcasing the physical toll of high-stakes matches. Additionally, struggles with 3-point shooting plagued Cal throughout the game, shooting just 1 for 11 from beyond the arc, which contrasts sharply with the previous week’s performance against Stanford. The missed opportunities weighed heavily as the Bears showed promise but faltered against the Trojans’ relentless defense.
Looking Ahead: Aiming for Greatness
As USC heads into Big Ten Conference play against Nebraska, the victory serves as a crucial stepping stone. The Trojans, now at 9-3, carry the momentum of strong non-conference victories, including wins against NC State and Washington. The focus now shifts to refinement and preparation for future challenges, with the team seeking continued success in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
As fans and players alike look forward to the upcoming matches, the excitement builds, underscoring the importance of loyalty and passion in college sports. Both teams demonstrated remarkable tenacity and spirit, a reminder of the essence of competition and the unpredictability that makes collegiate athletics so immensely captivating.
Do not miss any updates on the USC Trojans as they venture deeper into the season; stay tuned for more results and highlights from upcoming games!
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