The No. 7 USC Trojans delivered a commanding performance against No. 8 Ohio State on Saturday night, securing an 84-63 win at the Galen Center. USC (21-2, 11-1 Big Ten) controlled the game with dominant rebounding, strong interior defense, and a well-balanced offensive attack, while Ohio State (20-3, 9-3 Big Ten) struggled to find consistency on offense.
USC’s Inside Dominance Proves Too Much
Kiki Iriafen led the way for the Trojans, recording a stellar 24 points and 13 rebounds. JuJu Watkins overcame a slow start to notch a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Kennedy Smith contributed 13 points and 13 boards. USC dominated the glass, out-rebounding the Buckeyes 62-30 and swatting away 10 shots.
Ohio State’s Strong Start Fizzles
The Buckeyes came out aggressive on defense, forcing five early turnovers and holding USC scoreless for the first four minutes. However, they failed to capitalize on their early momentum, managing only a three-point lead as their offense struggled to find its rhythm.
By the second quarter, USC settled in and took control, heading into halftime with a 34-26 advantage. Ohio State attempted to mount a comeback in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to single digits. But USC quickly responded with a 7-0 run, highlighted by Watkins’ first made field goal after an 0-for-11 start. That momentum swing pushed the lead to 14, and from there, USC never looked back.
Ohio State’s Shooting Woes
Taylor Thierry led the Buckeyes with 14 points, five rebounds, and five steals, while Cotie McMahon added 13 points and Chance Gray chipped in 12. However, Ohio State struggled to convert offensively, shooting just 29% from the field and making only 2-of-11 attempts from beyond the arc.
What’s Next?
USC now carries momentum into a highly anticipated rivalry matchup against top-ranked UCLA on Thursday, Feb. 13. Meanwhile, Ohio State will look to bounce back when they return home to face Minnesota next week.
