The Washington Huskies (22-9, 11-8 Big Ten) defeated the USC Trojans (17-13, 9-9 Bug Ten) in a defensive slugfest, 76-64, that tested their composure and patience.
For the game, Washington’s 50% shooting overall, including 30% From three-point range; and 44–27 rebounding edge set the tone.
The Dawgs dominated inside, outscoring USC 40–14 in the paint.
Meanwhile the Trojans earned edges in second‑chance points (19–10), fast‑break points (6–5), and bench scoring (8–7), but USC failed to overcome their 31% shooting overall (27% from three) and Washington’s overwhelming efficiency during the middle quarters of the game.
UW’s ability to weather their own early turnovers (and 18 overall), clamp down defensively, and then surge offensively reflected a mature, tournament‑ready group.
With the win, the Huskies advance to face top‑seeded, second‑ranked UCLA in the Big Ten quarterfinals.
First Quarter – Ugly Offense, Relentless Defense From the opening tip, both Washington and USC struggled to find offensive rhythm.
The Huskies shot just 30% in the first quarter and went 0% from three‑point range.
Yet, they still managed to control the early tempo. USC, meanwhile, was even colder, hitting only 15.4% from the field and also failing to connect from deep.
The Trojans forced eight UW turnovers, disrupting passing lanes and contesting nearly every catch. Still, they could not convert those opportunities into points, going scoreless over the final 4:43 of the quarter.
The Dawgs leaned on scoring balance rather than efficiency.
Avery Howell led the Huskies in scoring with five points, while Brynn McGaughy added two and Sayvia Sellers chipped in a free throw.
Despite their offensive struggles, Washington’s half‑court defense matched USC’s intensity, allowing the Huskies to escape the quarter with an 8–6 lead.
Second Quarter – Ladine Ignites, Huskies Take Control In the second quarter, Washington finally found its offensive rhythm.
Although USC improved to 36.4% shooting and knocked down 40% of its threes in the period, the Trojans simply could not match Washington’s efficiency or execution.
The Huskies shot 47.6% in the period and finally opened the floor with 25% shooting from three.
Senior guard Elle Ladine led the charge: Ladine attacked off the dribble, cut decisively without the ball, and punished USC’s defense every time it relaxed.
Ladine poured in 13 points in the quarter alone, going 6-of-7 from the field and scoring the final six points of the half to push UW’s lead to 32–20.
Ladine received timely support from Hannah Stines, who added six points, and Howell, who continued her strong play with five more points.
Third Quarter – Dawgs Break It Open Coming out of halftime, Washington delivered the decisive blow.
The Huskies exploded in the third quarter, shooting a blistering 64.3% from the field and a remarkable 75% from three.
The Dawgs’ offense hummed with purpose—paint touches, inside‑out kicks, and confident perimeter shooting stretched USC’s defense past its breaking point.
Ladine led the way again with eight points in the quarter, while Howell added five, McGaughy chipped in four points, and Devon Coppinger scored three points, and Hannah Stines and Yulia Grabovskaia added two points each.
USC, conversely, shot just 27.8% overall and 22.2% from deep.
By the end of the third period, Washington had built a commanding 56–36 lead and had complete control of the matchup.
Fourth Quarter – USC’s Late Push, UW’s Composed Finish In the fourth quarter, USC refused to fold and finally found sustained offense, shooting 43.8% from the field and 36.4% from three.
USC outscored Washington 28–20 in the quarter and used a 7–0 run to trim the Huskies lead to as few as 10 points.
Yet the Huskies never truly lost their grip. Washington still shot 53.8% in the fourth and hit just enough shots to stay clear of real danger.
Ladine, McGaughy, and Stines each scored four points in the period, while Sellers and Howell added three apiece and Grabovskaia contributed another two points.
Even as USC converted six points off turnovers from their press, UW stayed poised, used the clock wisely, and closed out a 76–64 victory for the Dawgs.
UW WBB Huskies Players of the Game – Elle Ladine and Avery Howell Individually, the story belonged to Ladine and Howell.
Elle Ladine’s season‑high 25 points powered the offense, especially during the decisive second and third quarters.
Meanwhile, Avery Howell, facing her former team, delivered an emotional and efficient performance: 18 points on 7‑for‑9 shooting, nine rebounds, and three assists.
Other Notable Husky Performances Hannah Stines added 12 points, Brynn McGaughy contributed 10, and Yulia Grabovskaia anchored the glass with 10 rebounds. Even with Sellers limited to four points and no made field goals due to foul trouble, the Huskies’ depth and balance shined through.
Now the Dawgs head into their next challenge with momentum, confidence, and a clear identity: defend relentlessly, attack the paint, and trust their depth when stars are contained.
Next Up: Washington vs. UCLA – Friday, March 6th at 9am PST
