LOS ANGELES — The starting guard for Southern California, Kennedy Smith, is set to miss an undetermined amount of time following a recent surgical operation.

Her absence was confirmed just prior to the highly anticipated matchup between the Trojans, ranked third, and No. 6 Notre Dame on Saturday. Freshman Kayleigh Heckel, making her season debut as a starter, took Smith’s position on the court.

According to official statements from USC, there are expectations that Smith will be able to return to the game before the end of the current season.

The Chino native has played in four games so far, contributing an average of 10.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. Her most recent performance was on November 15, where she tallied nine points and five steals in a victory against Santa Clara.