INDIANAPOLIS — In an exhilarating showdown, No. 4 UCLA orchestrated a magnificent second-half comeback to clinch a 72-67 victory over No. 2 Southern California in the Big Ten Tournament championship game on Sunday. Leading the charge was Lauren Betts, who showcased her prowess by contributing 13 of her 17 points in a remarkable second-half display. This win marked a significant achievement for the Bruins (30-2), who managed to topple their arch-nemesis after losing two prior encounters this season.
The previous matchups saw USC claim victory and seize the regular-season title just nine days earlier at UCLA’s expense. With determination fueling their pursuit of redemption, the Bruins meticulously orchestrated a stunning defensive stand that proved pivotal. The Trojans found themselves in a scoring drought, missing 14 consecutive field goals late in the third quarter. By the time the final quarter unfolded, USC’s grip on their once formidable 48-35 lead was slipping, as they managed just four field goals in the period.
Despite valiant efforts, led by JuJu Watkins’ impressive 29 points and six rebounds, USC’s winning streak, which spanned nine games, reached its abrupt end. For UCLA, the collaboration between Kiki Rice and Londynn Jones, both contributing 13 points, played an instrumental role. Rice further dazzled with eight assists, while Betts, distinguished as the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, added five rebounds, four blocks, and four steals to her stellar performance.
UCLA eagerly anticipated a chance for revenge, urged on by Coach Cori Close, who emphasized the need for heightened toughness and aggression—a strategy that ultimately made the difference. On the other hand, USC began the second half with a promising 3-pointer, extending their lead to its peak, but faltered in maintaining their advantage, ultimately paying the price.
A pivotal moment arrived with less than five minutes remaining, as Janiah Barker’s two successful free throws bestowed UCLA with a 62-56 lead, instilling the confidence they required to conclude the game triumphantly. Crucial to this outcome was USC’s lackluster shooting, culminating in a meager 4-of-19 field-goal performance in the fourth quarter, with their first basket arriving only with 1:12 left on the clock.
Following this thrilling contest, both teams will enjoy a brief respite before learning the identities of their opponents for the initial rounds of the NCAA Tournament in Los Angeles.
