In a thrilling matchup at the Big Ten Tournament championship, No. 4 UCLA showcased their resilience by overcoming a 13-point deficit to secure a 72-67 victory against No. 2 USC on Sunday. The standout performance came from Lauren Betts, who scored 13 of her 17 points in the second half, leading the Bruins to an impressive comeback. This win marked a significant milestone for UCLA, as it was their first victory over their longtime crosstown rival, USC, in three encounters this season.
UCLA's defense played a crucial role in their triumph, allowing only four baskets in the final 12 minutes of the game. The Trojans, who had previously defeated UCLA nine days earlier and claimed the outright regular-season title, struggled offensively, missing an astonishing 14 consecutive shots starting late in the third quarter. As a result, USC's commanding 48-35 lead dwindled as the Bruins ramped up their defensive pressure.
Despite USC's struggles, JuJu Watkins led the Trojans with 29 points and six rebounds, but it wasn't enough to maintain their momentum. On the other hand, UCLA's Kiki Rice and Londynn Jones each contributed 13 points, with Rice also dishing out eight assists. Betts not only scored effectively but also made her mark defensively, recording five rebounds, four blocks, and four steals, ultimately earning her the tournament's Most Outstanding Player Award.
UCLA's head coach, Cori Close, emphasized the need for her team to be tougher and more aggressive, a challenge that clearly resonated with the players. The Trojans began the second half strong, hitting a 3-pointer that pushed their lead to its highest point. However, they could not capitalize on this momentum, finishing the fourth quarter with a dismal 4-of-19 shooting performance. The turning point came when Janiah Barker hit two crucial free throws with 4:10 remaining, giving the Bruins a 62-56 lead and the confidence they needed to close out the game.
Both teams will now take a much-needed week off to prepare for the upcoming NCAA tournament. They will be eager to find out their respective matchups in Los Angeles for the first two rounds. With UCLA’s stunning victory and defensive display, they are poised to make a significant impact in the tournament.
The Associated Press contributed to this report, highlighting the significance of this championship win for UCLA as they gear up for postseason play.
