Penn State Overcomes USC Women’s Team, Even with Kara Dunn’s 24 Points

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday night, Penn State edged out the USC women’s basketball team with an 85-82 victory. Kara Dunn and Jazzy Davidson led the Trojans with impressive performances, scoring 24 and 22 points, respectively.

USC initially captured the momentum, leading 62-58 early in the fourth quarter and holding a narrow advantage of 70-68 with just over five minutes left to play. However, key contributions from Kiyomi McMiller and Moriah Murray shifted the game in favor of Penn State as they made crucial baskets that secured the lead.

As the final moments approached, McMiller’s 15-foot jumper pushed Penn State’s lead to 79-74. Despite the pressure, Dunn managed a vital three-pointer with only 14 seconds remaining, narrowing the deficit to 82-80. Following an immediate foul on McMiller after the inbounds, she converted both free throws, further solidifying Penn State’s position. Davidson then scored on a layup, keeping USC within striking distance at 84-82 with just four seconds to go. A foul on Vitoria Santana sent her to the line, where she scored one of her two free throws with three seconds left, leaving USC unable to respond with a final shot.

In addition to Dunn’s standout performance, which included a season-high six three-pointers along with six rebounds and three assists, Davidson extended her streak of double-figure scoring games to 25, marking her sixth consecutive game with over 20 points. Kennedy Smith also shone with 19 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block.

With this defeat, USC’s record now stands at 17-11 overall and 9-8 in Big Ten play. For Penn State, this win marks only the second time the team has emerged victorious against USC, and it’s the first triumph since January 6, 1980.