Entering their matchup versus No. 4 USC undefeated, No. 8 Maryland walked away with their first loss of the season, dropping the game 79-74.
The Terps were in the driver’s seat with under three minutes left, leading 72-70. However, the Trojans demonstrated the hearts of champions and outexecuted Maryland during the closing minutes. JuJu Watkins converted on a pair of free throws, and after Kiki Iriafen scored on an and-one play, USC was up 75-72.
Watkins fouled out with 31 seconds left to play, but her teammates closed Maryland out with Avery Howell hitting two free throws, followed by Iriafen making another pair immediately after her.
Maryland missed five-straight field goal attempts during this stretch, sealing their fate.
USC’s key players put in some big performances. Watkins scored 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while Iriafen matched that point total and grabbed seven boards. Rayah Marshall led the team in rebounding with 15. Freshmen Kayleigh Heckel and Avery Howell also stepped up big for USC, scoring 10 points each.
Maryland played a great game on paper, despite losing. Shyanne Sellers scored 26 points, Kaylene Smikle added 16 points and Christina Dalce had a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
