Davidson’s clutch shot propels No. 18 USC past No. 9 NC State

Jazzy Davidson delivered a standout performance, scoring 21 points and sinking the decisive layup with just 8.2 seconds remaining to lift No. 18 USC over No. 9 NC State, 69-68, in Sunday’s third annual Ally Tip-Off. Davidson’s clutch basket came off a perfectly timed cut to the rim, where she caught an inbounds pass from Kennedy Smith and finished strong. The freshman guard was unstoppable after halftime, posting 18 of her 21 points on 7-for-13 shooting. The Trojans (2-0) also benefited from Londynn Jones’ 19 points, while Smith added 10 points and eight rebounds.

For NC State (1-1), Zoe Brooks led the way with 24 points and 11 rebounds. However, the Wolfpack’s comeback attempt was cut short when USC’s Malia Samuels stripped Brooks of the ball during her final drive in the closing seconds. NC State still had a final chance with under two seconds remaining, but Smith intercepted the inbounds pass to seal the victory for the Trojans. Khamil Pierre contributed a double-double of 10 points and a career-high 18 rebounds in the loss.

NC State appeared to seize control late in the third quarter with an 8-0 run capped by a transition three from Zam Jones, and a free throw by Brooks early in the fourth extended the lead to 11 points — the largest of the game. But USC mounted a fierce rally, outscoring the Wolfpack 19-7 down the stretch and capitalizing on 18 NC State turnovers for 15 points. The win was especially meaningful for the Trojans, who are competing this season without reigning National Player of the Year JuJu Watkins, sidelined after knee surgery following last year’s NCAA tournament.