USC overcame a sluggish start and a late push from Kansas State to emerge victorious, 67-61, in their NCAA Tournament matchup. The Trojans, led by Kennedy Smith’s 19 points and Avery Howell’s 18 points, will face UConn in the Elite Eight for a chance to advance to the Final Four.
The game was marked by mistakes on both sides, but USC capitalized on Kansas State’s mental error in fouling midway through the shot clock, hitting two free throws to retake a two-possession lead. The Wildcats responded with a layup by Serena Sundell, cutting the deficit to one point with 1:36 left in the game.
USC regained control with a two-point lead, and Kansas State pushed back again, tying the score at 55-51 with just over two minutes remaining. However, USC’s Kennedy Smith sealed the win with a steal and layup, leading to a three-point lead as the third quarter came to a close.
The Trojans’ victory was made all the more impressive by the absence of star JuJu Watkins, who suffered an ACL injury early in the game. Despite this setback, USC showed its resilience and determination, advancing to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2017.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/college-basketball/live/march-madness-live-updates-scores-bracket-highlights-womens-ncaa-tournament-sweet-16-action-160054595.html