Overview
- USC is cast as the clear underdog for the first time since 2022–23 as the crosstown rivals meet Saturday in Westwood.
- The key matchup centers on 6-foot-7 Lauren Betts, a projected top‑5 WNBA pick, with USC lacking past interior stoppers Rayah Marshall and Clarice Akunwafo.
- UCLA holds a notable three‑point edge this season at 37.5% compared with USC’s 30.1%, heightening the importance of perimeter defense for the Trojans.
- Freshman Jazzy Davidson has emerged as USC’s swing piece, leading the Big Ten in blocks at 2.7 per game and finishing the Nebraska win with 17 points after only a calf cramp scare.
- Kennedy Smith matched Davidson with 17 points at Nebraska to spark momentum, and UCLA transfer Londynn Jones returns to Pauley after a game‑changing third quarter in that victory.