SPOKANE, Wash. — The Kansas State women's basketball team saw their NCAA Tournament run come to an abrupt end on Saturday night, as they fell to the top-seeded USC Trojans 67-61 in the Sweet 16 at Spokane Arena. Despite a valiant effort and several opportunities to take control of the game, the Wildcats were unable to capitalize in the closing moments, leaving them just shy of the Elite Eight.
The Wildcats, seeded fifth in the tournament, finished their season with an impressive 28-8 record. Meanwhile, USC improved to 31-3 and will advance to face second-seeded Connecticut on Monday night for a chance to reach the Final Four.
K-State's seniors made their final game count, with Serena Sundell leading the charge with 22 points, showcasing her scoring prowess throughout the contest. Ayoka Lee contributed a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Jaelyn Glenn added 10 points. However, it was not enough to overcome a determined Trojans squad that had lost their star player, JuJu Watkins, to a season-ending injury earlier in the tournament.
USC's victory was propelled by a strong performance from their freshmen duo, Avery Howell and Kennedy Smith. Howell started in place of Watkins and delivered a crucial 18 points, while Smith led the Trojans with 19 points, demonstrating that the team could still thrive despite the loss of their standout player. Smith's contributions were particularly vital, as she scored 11 of her points in the first quarter alone, helping USC to establish an early lead.
The game started with a slow offensive pace, as both teams struggled to find their rhythm. USC jumped out to a 7-2 lead, but Kansas State quickly responded, tying the game at 16-16 before the Trojans ended the first quarter ahead 16-9.
In the second quarter, the Wildcats found their footing, going on a 10-0 run to take their first lead of the game. They outscored USC 21-12 in the period, heading into halftime with a narrow 30-28 advantage. Sundell's scoring and the Wildcats' strong defensive efforts helped them gain momentum.
As the third quarter unfolded, the back-and-forth battle continued. K-State briefly held a 39-37 lead with just under five minutes remaining, but USC responded with a 12-0 run, reclaiming the lead at 48-39. The Trojans capitalized on K-State's turnovers, and their defense began to stifle the Wildcats' offense.
After three quarters, USC led 48-45, with both teams looking to seize control in the final period. The tension mounted as the game entered its closing minutes, with K-State having opportunities to take the lead but failing to convert. With just over two minutes left, USC held a slim 60-59 lead.
In the final stretch, K-State had chances to tie or take the lead but struggled with their shooting. Sundell missed a crucial shot in the lane, and Temira Poindexter's three-point attempt fell short. The Wildcats were unable to score in the last three minutes of the game, missing their final five shots.
USC's Kennedy Smith sealed the victory with key free throws in the final seconds, allowing the Trojans to maintain their lead. With the game clock winding down, K-State was forced to foul, and USC capitalized on the opportunity to extend their lead to 67-61.
Despite the disappointment, K-State's season was marked by significant achievements, including a successful postseason run and strong performances from their senior players. Coach Jeff Mitties expressed pride in his team's efforts throughout the season, highlighting the resilience they showed in tough matchups.
As for USC, they will look to build on their momentum as they prepare to face UConn, a team they faced last year in the same round, where they were eliminated. The Trojans will need to rally as they continue their quest for a national championship without their star player, but the emergence of Howell and Smith has given them newfound hope.
The matchup against Connecticut promises to be an exciting contest, as both teams vie for a spot in the Final Four. With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect a thrilling showdown on Monday night.
