The USC Trojans women’s basketball team faces a pivotal challenge as they take on the Maryland Terrapins on January 15, 2024, at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. After suffering three consecutive losses, including a narrow 63-62 defeat to the Minnesota Golden Gophers, USC has fallen out of the AP Top 25 rankings for the first time since the end of the 2022-23 season. This matchup presents an opportunity for the Trojans to reset their narrative and potentially regain their spot in the national conversation.
USC’s recent performance in Minnesota offered a glimmer of hope. The team recorded a season-high of 14 three-pointers, shooting 45.2 percent from beyond the arc. This is a significant improvement for a squad that has struggled with three-point shooting, ranking among the lowest in the Big Ten at 31.6 percent for the season. Freshman Jazzy Davidson stood out with her best shooting night, hitting 5-of-9 attempts from long range. Her scoring ability is crucial for the Trojans, especially as she currently leads the team in points, rebounds, steals, and blocks.
The absence of key player Kennedy Smith, who missed the last two games due to a lower-leg injury, has been felt by the Trojans. With her defensive capabilities, Smith’s return could significantly impact the game against Maryland. Prior to her injury, she demonstrated her potential by delivering a strong performance against the No. 20 Nebraska Cornhuskers. USC has struggled to contain opposing guards in her absence, which was evident in their recent matches against Oregon and Minnesota. If she is cleared to play, her two-way presence could be a decisive factor against Maryland’s formidable backcourt.
The Maryland Terrapins, currently ranked No. 12, are also looking to bounce back after a recent loss to the No. 14 Ohio State Buckeyes, where they fell 89-76. The Terrapins boast an impressive roster, led by senior guard Yarden Garzon, who leads the Big Ten and ranks 11th nationally in three-pointers made, with 53 successful shots this season. Garzon averages 13.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, making her a key player for the Trojans to monitor closely. Over her last two games, she has displayed remarkable shooting form, going 11-for-16 from beyond the arc.
Additionally, junior guard Oluchi Okananwa has emerged as a standout performer for Maryland, averaging a career-high 17.4 points per game with a shooting percentage of 53.4 percent. Her scoring efficiency makes her one of the most dangerous players in the country, contributing to Maryland’s status as one of the top teams in the Big Ten, averaging 87 points per game.
While USC aims to contain Maryland’s talented guards, they may also need to address the interior presence of junior forward Isimenme Ozzy-Momodu, who averages 8.3 points and 6.7 rebounds. Should Maryland’s perimeter shooting falter, Ozzy-Momodu could become increasingly vital to their offensive strategy.
This matchup on January 15 not only signifies a critical juncture for USC’s season but also highlights the competitive nature of Big Ten women’s basketball. A victory against Maryland could rejuvenate the Trojans’ campaign and restore their confidence as they strive for success in one of the most challenging conferences in college sports.
