UConn Routs USC 79-51, Ends 20‑Game Home Streak

Azzi Fudd poured in 17 points as the No. 1 Huskies dismantled the 16th‑ranked Trojans 79‑51 on Saturday, snapping Southern California’s 20‑game home‑winning streak.

Game Overview

UConn entered the game with a 10‑0 record and a defensive reputation that would prove decisive. USC, led by freshman star Jazzy Davidson, had a 9‑8 lead early, but the Huskies immediately turned the tide.

The defending national champions launched a 15‑point burst to close the first quarter, part of a 24‑2 run that gave them a 32‑11 lead early in the second. Davidson’s lone first‑half jumper was one of only seven field goals for USC before the break, when UConn led 39‑17.

Key Performances

Azzi Fudd finished with 17 points, anchoring the Huskies’ offense. Ashlynn Shade added 15 points, while Sarah Strong contributed 14 points and seven rebounds. On the opposing side, Kennedy Smith led USC with 16 points and seven rebounds, but the Trojans were limited to 10 points on 3 of 13 shooting.

UConn’s defense was relentless. The Huskies restricted USC to 10 points on 3 of 13, and the Trojans’ only sustained run came in the third quarter, when they outscored the Huskies 18‑9 to trail 69‑39.

Defensive Dominance

From the opening tip, UConn’s swarming defense stifled USC. Whenever the Trojans packed the paint, the Huskies responded with a three‑pointer. The team also struggled to hit from long range, making only 7 of 19 attempts.

JuJu Watkins, who missed the game due to an ACL injury sustained in the second round of the NCAA tournament, was noted for keeping teammates relaxed during timeouts and as players cycled in and out of the game.

Bench Impact and Legacy

The game also featured a touching moment between UConn alum Diana Taurasi and USC alum Cheryl Miller, both wearing their school apparel and sharing a pre‑game hug.

With this victory, UConn continues its undefeated season and adds another dominant win against a top‑ten opponent, following a 69‑68 win over then‑No. 9 N.C. State and a 69‑52 loss to then‑No. 2 South Carolina in Los Angeles.

Next Games

UConn will host Marquette on Wednesday, while USC will host Cal Poly on Thursday to conclude a six‑game homestand.

Key Takeaways

• UConn defeats USC 79‑51, ending the Trojans’ 20‑game home streak.
• Azzi Fudd leads the Huskies with 17 points.
• USC’s freshman star Jazzy Davidson is held to 10 points on 3 of 13.

The Huskies’ combination of early scoring bursts, defensive pressure, and bench support secured another flawless victory as they keep their undefeated record intact.