In a thrilling NCAA Tournament First Round matchup, the No. 9 seed USC women's basketball team edged out No. 8 seed Clemson 71-67 in overtime, showcasing resilience and determination. This back-and-forth clash featured 19 lead changes and seven ties, with USC relying on timely runs and a standout performance from freshman sensation Jazzy Davidson to secure the win. Now, the Trojans set their sights on a rematch against No. 1 seed South Carolina in the Second Round.
Clemson started strong, opening with a 6-0 lead, but USC quickly found their rhythm through transition play. Kara Dunn sparked the Trojans with a fast-break three, followed by a layup from Londynn Jones to halt Clemson's early momentum. USC closed the first quarter on an 8-2 run, trailing just 14-13.
The second quarter saw Dunn hit another three, giving USC their first lead, before Davidson took over. Her nine consecutive points were crucial, as she either scored or assisted on 20 of USC's 26 first-half points. Despite trailing 28-26 at halftime, Davidson kept the Trojans within reach.
In the third quarter, Davidson continued to shine, scoring USC's first five points, including a three-point play. Clemson fought back, extending their lead to seven, but Dunn's three-point play cut the deficit to four entering the final period. USC shot an impressive 50 percent in the third, setting up a dramatic conclusion.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with USC opening on a 5-0 run to reclaim the lead. The teams traded baskets, with Kennedy Smith tying the game at 56-56. Davidson's go-ahead layup and Dunn's clutch layup and free throw gave USC a slight edge, but Clemson's free throws tied it at 61-61, forcing overtime.
In the extra period, Davidson drilled a crucial three-pointer to tie the game at 64-64. USC then went on an 8-0 run, fueled by stifling defense that limited Clemson to 2-of-9 shooting. Key free throws from Smith and Malia Samuels sealed the historic 71-67 victory, marking USC's first NCAA Tournament overtime win.
Davidson's 31-point explosion was not only her 29th double-figure game of the season but also the second-highest point total by a Trojan in NCAA Tournament history. She added six rebounds and five assists, becoming the first freshman in 25 years to post a 30-5-5 stat line in an NCAA Tournament debut.
Dunn contributed 22 points, with 11 coming in the fourth quarter, while Smith chipped in 12 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Laura Williams anchored the defense with three blocks as USC outscored Clemson in the paint and off turnovers.
With this victory, USC improves to 3-1 against ACC opponents this season and advances to the Second Round for the 14th time in program history. The Trojans now aim to avenge an earlier loss to South Carolina and secure a spot in the Sweet 16. Game time details will be announced soon.