USC women’s basketball edged California 60-55 in a thrilling Bay Area Women’s Classic matchup on December 21, 2025. The No. 19 Trojans survived a tightly contested battle at Chase Center in San Francisco, with Jazzy Davidson delivering an outstanding performance to lead the way.
🔥 Quick Facts
- USC defeated California 60-55 in the Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic on December 21, 2025
- Jazzy Davidson led all scorers with 24 points on 9-of-21 shooting, plus 4 rebounds and 2 assists
- The game took place at Chase Center in San Francisco, featuring top NCAA Division I programs
- Kara Dunn contributed 15 points and 6 rebounds for the Trojans in the narrow triumph
Davidson Dominates in Close Contest
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Jazzy Davidson’s standout performance proved to be the difference as USC held off California in a low-scoring defensive battle. The freshman star finished 9-of-21 from the field and a perfect 3-of-3 from the free throw line to pace the Trojans. Davidson’s consistency throughout the contest enabled USC to maintain control despite Cal’s persistent offensive challenges.
Kennedy Smith added 11 points for USC, while Londynn Jones contributed 6 points and several crucial possessions. The Trojans showcased strong ball control, committing just 14 turnovers compared to California’s 18, which proved advantageous in the close final minutes.
Trojans’ Three-Point Advantage Holds
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USC’s defensive execution was particularly impressive, holding California to just 36% shooting from the field and forcing the Golden Bears to struggle from three-point range at only 9% (1-of-11). The Trojans themselves shot 35% overall and 37% from beyond the arc, showing that ball movement and defensive intensity trumped shooting efficiency. Kara Dunn was essential on the boards with 6 rebounds, helping USC control the glass with 38 total rebounds.
| Team Statistics | USC | California |
| Final Score | 60 | 55 |
| Field Goal % | 35% (23-66) | 36% (18-50) |
| Three-Point % | 37% (7-19) | 9% (1-11) |
| Free Throw % | 70% (7-10) | 64% (18-28) |
| Total Rebounds | 38 | 40 |
| Turnovers | 14 | 18 |
California Fights Back
Sakima Walker led the Golden Bears with 13 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort, showing strong all-around production. Taylor Barnes added 11 points and 6 rebounds, while Lulu Twidale contributed 11 points in the Cal attack. Despite the loss, California’s defensive intensity kept them within striking distance throughout the contest, making it a competitive matchup worthy of the tournament’s prestige.
“This was a battle of defenses, and both teams executed well. Davidson’s efficiency and our team’s ability to limit turnovers down the stretch made the difference in a hard-fought game.”
— USC Trojans Women’s Basketball, Big Ten Conference
What This Means for Both Programs?
The Trojans improved to 8-3 on the season with this tournament victory, gaining valuable nonconference experience against a strong California squad. USC’s defense in this contest demonstrates the potential the team possesses moving forward into Big Ten Conference play. The ability to win low-scoring, grind-it-out games like this will be crucial as the season progresses and postseason aspirations come into focus.
California dropped to 8-4 but showed they can compete with top-20 programs. The Golden Bears have proven they belong in major tournament settings and will look to use this experience as they continue their regular season. Sakima Walker’s performance suggests Cal has the pieces to make a run in their conference.
How Did This Defensive Showcase Impact Tournament Momentum?
The Bay Area Women’s Classic showcased two NCAA Division I programs playing textbook defensive basketball, with turnovers and shooting efficiency becoming the storylines rather than high-scoring performances. USC’s ability to execute in crunch time—making key free throws and limiting offensive mistakes—provided the foundation for their five-point victory. This tournament appearance reinforces both programs’ commitments to playing in prestigious nonconference tournaments that test their championship mettle.
Sources
- ESPN – Official game coverage and box score statistics
- Chase Center – Tournament venue confirmation and event details
- USC Athletics – Team roster and season statistics
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.