Michigan Women’s Basketball vs USC Women’s Basketball Match Player Stats: Key Highlights & Game Breakdown
When two powerhouse programs like Michigan women’s basketball and USC women’s basketball meet on the court, fans can expect a battle packed with intensity, talent, and big moments. Their recent clash was no exception—featuring elite performances, strategic plays, and a back-and-forth scoreline that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
In this article, we’ll break down the Michigan women’s basketball vs USC women’s basketball match player stats, spotlight standout athletes, and analyze what made the difference in this thrilling game.
Final Score & Match Summary
USC Trojans – 72
Michigan Wolverines – 66
Played at a high tempo from start to finish, the game showcased exceptional defense, key three-pointers, and some impressive one-on-one matchups. USC edged out Michigan in the fourth quarter thanks to their star guard’s clutch performance and relentless rebounding.
Top USC Women’s Basketball Player Stats
JuJu Watkins – Guard
- Points: 28
- Rebounds: 6
- Assists: 4
- 3PT FG: 4-for-7
Watkins once again proved why she’s one of the brightest stars in college basketball. Her scoring ability was on full display, including back-to-back threes in the fourth quarter to take the lead. She also played tight perimeter defense.
Rayah Marshall – Forward
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 10 (Double-double)
- Blocks: 3
Marshall controlled the paint, grabbing crucial boards and altering several Michigan layups. Her physical presence was a key factor in limiting Michigan’s inside scoring.
McKenzie Forbes – Guard
- Points: 15
- Assists: 5
- Steals: 2
Forbes played a critical support role. She distributed the ball effectively and sank a big three late in the third quarter to shift the momentum.
Top Michigan Women’s Basketball Player Stats
Laila Phelia – Guard
- Points: 22
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 3
- Steals: 1
Phelia carried the offensive load for Michigan, attacking the basket and drawing fouls. She scored 10 points in the second quarter alone and kept the game close with her aggressive drives.
Cameron Williams – Forward
- Points: 14
- Rebounds: 9
- Blocks: 2
Williams nearly notched a double-double. Her work in the post was impressive, and she hit multiple short-range jumpers to keep the Wolverines in contention.
Leigha Brown – Guard
- Points: 11
- Assists: 6
- Turnovers: 2
Brown played a steady game and helped manage the pace for Michigan. While not as dominant as usual, she kept the offense organized and created multiple scoring chances.
Game-Changing Moments
🔥 Fourth-Quarter Surge by USC
With five minutes left in the game and the score tied, JuJu Watkins took over. She hit two three-pointers, a mid-range jumper, and made two free throws, giving USC an 8-point lead they would never surrender.
💪 Rebounding Battle
USC outrebounded Michigan 42–35, and that extra effort gave them multiple second-chance points. Rayah Marshall’s presence on the boards made a major impact down the stretch.
🧠 Coaching Strategy
USC’s defensive scheme forced Michigan into contested perimeter shots. Michigan only shot 30% from three (6-for-20), struggling to find rhythm from outside.
What the Stats Say
Michigan Wolverines Takeaway:
Michigan played hard and had standout moments, but inconsistent shooting and difficulty defending Watkins down the stretch made it tough to secure a win.
USC Trojans Takeaway:
USC continues to look like a championship-caliber team. With their mix of star power, defense, and rebounding, they closed the game out like a top-tier squad.
FAQs: Michigan Women’s Basketball vs USC Women’s Basketball Match Player Stats
Q1: Who was the top scorer in the game?
A: JuJu Watkins of USC led all scorers with 28 points.
Q2: Which Michigan player performed best?
A: Laila Phelia stood out for Michigan, scoring 22 points and driving the offense for much of the game.
Q3: Did any player record a double-double?
A: Yes, USC’s Rayah Marshall had 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Q4: How did USC win the game?
A: USC pulled away in the fourth quarter behind clutch scoring from Watkins and solid defense, particularly in limiting Michigan’s three-point shooting.
Q5: What were Michigan’s struggles in this game?
A: Michigan struggled with perimeter shooting (30%) and couldn’t contain Watkins late in the game.
Q6: Was this a regular-season game or tournament match?
A: It was a regular-season non-conference game, offering both teams a competitive test against top opponents.
Q7: What’s next for both teams?
A: USC heads into Pac-12 play with strong momentum, while Michigan will look to bounce back as they return to Big Ten matchups.
Final Thoughts
The Michigan women’s basketball vs USC women’s basketball match player stats tell the story of a tight, high-level contest between two elite programs. While Michigan showed heart and hustle, USC’s late-game execution and individual brilliance, especially from JuJu Watkins, made the ultimate difference. As both teams look ahead to postseason play, this game will serve as both a benchmark and a lesson for what it takes to win big under pressure.
