LA JOLLA, Calif. -- The No. 16-ranked University of Michigan water polo team faced two tough opponents at the Aztec Invitational on March 15, 2025, dropping both matches against the formidable No. 2 USC and the No. 11 UC San Diego. The day began with Michigan's first match against the Trojans, which saw them suffer an 18-7 defeat.
USC (21-1) started strong, establishing a 3-0 lead within the initial minutes of the game. Michigan (8-7) managed to score back, with Issy Jackson netting one just before the end of the first period, bringing the score to 3-1. The Wolverines tightened up their defense after USC's initial surge, with Emma Gustafsson providing some light for Michigan with her hat trick during the match.
Despite their efforts, Michigan fell behind as USC extended their lead to 7-2. Gustafsson and Ari Karampetsou contributed with goals, but by halftime, USC had dominated with a score of 12-5. USC's testing defense kept Michigan scoreless through the third quarter, culminating with the Trojans pushing the lead to 15-5 before the final period.
Although Michigan battled hard, Waugh capped off their scoring with her goal under one minute to play, but it was clear the Wolverines were outmatched by the Trojans.
Later, Michigan faced UC San Diego. Despite having acquired early momentum by jumping to a 3-0 lead with goals by Karampetsou, Gustafsson, and Waugh, the Tritons didn’t back down. Michigan led 8-6 at halftime but fell short, losing 13-12.
The Tritons turned the tide after the break, scoring five goals to Michigan's two, with freshman Holly Roberts impressively netting four goals, two of which came successively during the fourth quarter. UC San Diego built on their confidence, aided by Abigail Schechter's timely power-play goal to break the tie at 10-9, allowing the Tritons to maintain their lead.
Despite Waugh scoring again toward the end and Gustafsson’s quick strike bringing Michigan closer, the Wolverines couldn’t find the equalizer before the final buzzer rang. Their record now stands at 8-8.
Looking to turn the tide, Michigan's next challenge will be against No. 8 Harvard on March 16, 2025, at the Aztec Aquaplex. Meanwhile, UC San Diego's successful day puts them at 13-11 as they aim for continued success after splitting their matches.