Overview
A strong second quarter propelled USC to a 78-51 victory over Portland, with Jazzy Davidson scoring 19 points to lead the Trojans.
«We’re still a work in progress,» Head Coach Lindsay Gottlieb said in a postgame news conference. «But, we’ll take it.»
Game summary
USC, coming off a tough loss and aiming to reclaim confidence, overcame an early deficit to dominate the Pilots. The Trojans trailed by as many as 8 points in the second quarter but exploded with a decisive stretch to seize control.
- Final score: USC 78, Portland 51.
- USC (3-1) faced defensive pressure early but responded with improved play in transition and on-ball pressure.
- The Trojans outscored Portland 24–9 in the second quarter and built momentum heading into halftime.
Key players
- Jazzy Davidson — 19 points on 9-of-16 shooting, 7 rebounds, 5 assists (season best by far).
- Kennedy Smith — 13 points, including multiple 3-pointers.
- Londynn Jones — 12 points off the bench with multiple triples.
Team notes
The win marked a positive response after earlier struggles, with USC strengthening its offensive execution and defensive intensity in the second quarter and beyond.
Quotes
«She was heating up the ball, bringing the ball up, getting to the basket. That’s the stuff that she does best. So, when she has the opportunity, I tell her, ‘Take it.’ I have full confidence in her.»
Author’s summary
USC overturned an early deficit through a 21–0 stretch in the second quarter, showcasing defensive pressure that forced turnovers and a balanced scoring effort led by Davidson, Smith, and Jones, culminating in a convincing home win.
Author’s resume
Concise synthesis of the game: USC used a dramatic second-quarter surge to flip a tight matchup into a decisive 78–51 victory, driven by Davidson’s 19 points and strong contributions from Smith and Jones, while maintaining improved defense and tempo throughout the game.