USC Hands Maryland First LossBig Ten Showdown, 79-74
JuJu Watkins and Kiki Iriafen lead the Trojans to victory despite late-game challenges and a strong Maryland defense.
- USC, ranked No. 4, defeated No. 8 Maryland 79-74, ending Maryland's undefeated season and improving to 15-1 overall and 5-0 in Big Ten play.
- JuJu Watkins scored 21 points but faced a tough night with eight turnovers and fouled out in the final minute; Kiki Iriafen also contributed 21 points, including a key late-game three-point play.
- Maryland led by seven points in the fourth quarter but was outscored 18-6 in the final minutes, with Kennedy Smith tying the game and USC taking control late.
- Shyanne Sellers led Maryland with 26 points, but the team struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 2-of-14, and failed to capitalize on key opportunities in the closing moments.
- The victory marks USC's first win against Maryland in Big Ten play, underscoring the Trojans' adaptability to cross-country travel in their inaugural season in the conference.
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