USC Women’s Basketball: New Beginnings and High Expectations as they Face Ohio State

USC Women’s Basketball: It’s been four decades since USC women’s basketball stood at the pinnacle of the sport. With a revamped team and a preseason ranking, the 2023 season promises a different narrative. However, after years of being overlooked, the No. 21 Trojans face the challenge of proving themselves in a clash with future Big Ten rival No. 7 Ohio State in Las Vegas.

Contrasting Trajectories

Ohio State’s Recent Success: While USC appears to be starting a new era, the Buckeyes are coming off two strong March Madness runs. Ohio State had its finest season in 30 years last season, with ten returning players. Cotie McMahon, a sophomore forward who scored 15.1 points per game in her first season, was crucial for the Buckeyes.

USC’s Struggle for Renewal: The Trojans are anxiously awaiting the arrival of top recruit freshman guard JuJu Watkins, who is expected to revitalize their attack. Nonetheless, opening the season on a national stage against a formidable opponent presents a huge challenge.

Defensive Strategies to Keep an Eye On

Ohio State’s Defensive Prowess: Ohio State’s success last season was founded on a solid defense, as proven by their 25-forced turnover victory over UConn in the Sweet Sixteen. Head Coach Kevin McGuff’s tough defensive style must be anticipated by USC.

Guard Play and Adaptability at USC: USC Head Coach Lindsay Gottlieb cites the team’s dynamic guard play, adaptability, and interchangeability as assets that could make them a more difficult team to guard this season. The Trojans’ backcourt has been strengthened with the arrival of graduate transfer guard Kayla Padilla, who has a history of dominating seasons.

Setting the Season’s Tone

USC’s Determination: Despite Ohio State’s difficult challenge, the Trojans are determined to open the season on a positive note. A win over a great team like Ohio State might set the tone for the rest of the season.

Leadership Among Guard Depth: Despite the amount of guard skill on the USC squad, redshirt sophomore guard Taylor Bigby is expected to be a leader for the newer guys.

Predictions for the Future

USC’s Move to the Big Ten: While USC and Ohio State haven’t played since 2006, this game provides a preview of what’s to come as USC enters its last Pac-12 season before transitioning to the Big Ten.

Coach Gottlieb expresses her team’s capacity to rise to the challenge with confidence and ambition. She believes that USC is prepared to handle such high-stakes games, knowing that this is where they want to compete.

The Beginning of the Journey

NCAA Tournament Quest: The road to the NCAA Tournament begins now. Watch USC take on Ohio State at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Monday at 11 a.m.

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E-paper:  Divya Sandesh