By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
LOS ANGELES — The USC women’s basketball team is headed to the NCAA Tournament, earning an at-large bid announced Sunday. However, a 17-13 regular-season record placed the Trojans as a No. 9 seed, setting up a challenging path in March Madness.
USC will open tournament play against No. 8 seed Clemson on March 21 at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. The matchup is expected to be closely contested, with the winner advancing to face a higher-seeded opponent in the next round.
Despite the seeding, head coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressed confidence in her team’s mindset heading into the tournament.
“I think it’s right for this group,” Gottlieb said. “We understand that we have work to do to prove what we’re capable of. There’s no lack of belief in this room.”
Freshman Star Leads the Way
The Trojans will lean heavily on Big Ten Freshman of the Year Jazzy Davidson, who has emerged as one of the team’s most dynamic players this season. Davidson averaged strong all-around numbers and quickly became a cornerstone of USC’s offense.
There was brief concern after Davidson suffered a shoulder injury during the Big Ten Tournament. However, she is expected to be healthy and available for the opening-round matchup against Clemson—a key boost for USC’s chances.
Opportunity Ahead
While the No. 9 seed presents a difficult road, it also offers an opportunity for the Trojans to make a statement on the national stage. With a mix of young talent and resilience, USC enters the tournament motivated to exceed expectations.
For a program looking to reestablish itself among the nation’s elite, the journey begins in Columbia.