As the USC lacrosse team gears up for their third consecutive road game, they're heading to Tempe for a Saturday showdown against Arizona State at Sun Devil Lacrosse Stadium. With the match set for a 12 p.m. MST start, fans can catch the action live on ESPN+.
The Women of Troy, currently holding a 3-2 record, are coming off a split in Northern California. They secured a thrilling 12-11 victory over UC Davis but fell short against their long-time rivals, Stanford.
Despite recent challenges, USC maintains a strong historical edge over Arizona State, leading the series 13-2. However, it's worth noting that the Sun Devils have managed to snag a couple of wins, including a notable victory during the 2022 Pac-12 Championship tournament.
Under the leadership of 14th-year head coach Lindsey Munday, a four-time conference Coach of the Year, the Trojans have established a formidable presence in collegiate lacrosse. Munday, the program's first and only head coach, boasts an impressive 164-72 record.
USC's recent move to the new Rawlinson Stadium marks an exciting chapter for the team. Built on the old McAlister Field site, the stadium promises to be a fortress for the Trojans in the coming seasons.
The Trojans have demonstrated resilience in tight games, with a history of 21 one-goal victories, including two this spring. Junior midfielder Anna Regan has been a standout, with her 260 career draw controls ranking third in USC history. Meanwhile, junior attacker Emma Bunting has been dishing out assists at an impressive rate, ranking third in the Big Ten.
Offensively, the Trojans have seen contributions from a diverse group, with 10 different players finding the back of the net. Sophomore attacker Kaylee Fravert and midfielder Alex May lead the charge with seven goals each.
Despite being picked to finish sixth in the Big Ten preseason poll, the Women of Troy are determined to exceed expectations. Their recent performance in Northern California, highlighted by Bunting's hat trick against UC Davis, showcases their potential.
USC's legacy of producing All-Americans continues to inspire the current roster. With 10 IWLCA All-America selections in their history, the program's tradition of excellence is a testament to the talent and dedication of its players and coaching staff.
As the Trojans prepare to face Arizona State, fans can expect a competitive clash that could set the tone for the rest of their season.