LOS ANGELES (AP) — JuJu Watkins scored 31 points, making 13 of 14 free throws, and No. 4 Southern California beat No. 23 Michigan 78-58 Sunday night in the season opener at Big Ten home of the Trojans.
Watkins had five rebounds, seven assists, three steals and three blocks. Kiki Iriafen added 18 points for the Trojans (12-1, 2-0). The duo combined to score USC’s first 16 points in the fourth as the Trojans dominated Michigan 21-9.
Jordan Hobbs scored 19 points for Michigan (10-3, 1-1). Greta Kampschroeder added 14 and Olivia Olson added 11.
Takeaways
Michigan: The Wolverines have lost to all three ranked opponents they have faced so far this season, including a six-point loss to then-No. 1 South Carolina. They’ll get another chance at top-ranked UCLA on Wednesday.
USC: Iriafen was on the bench with four fouls before returning in the fourth. She scored the Trojans’ first eight points to extend their lead to 18 points and provided strong defense in the low post.
Key moment
With Michigan trailing by 10, Hobbs scored 14 straight points, including four straight 3-pointers, to help the Wolverines lead 34-31 at halftime.
Key statistic
The Trojans were 20 of 23 from the free throw line, making 13 of 14 in the third when they trailed by two before regaining their lead to 10 heading into the fourth.
To be continued
Michigan visits top-ranked UCLA and USC hosts Nebraska, both on Wednesday.
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