Close Call: No. 7 Michigan Holds Off USC After Second Half Surge, Winning 73-67

by January 25, 2026

Michigan Wolverines Secure Narrow Victory Over USC Trojans

In a thrilling matchup, the No. 7 ranked Michigan Wolverines narrowly defeated the struggling USC Trojans 73-67 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Sunday afternoon. Despite leading by as many as 16 points earlier in the game, Michigan found itself in a tight spot as USC made a significant push in the second half.

Key Performers

The standout for the Wolverines was Olivia Olson, who delivered a stellar performance with 23 points, solidifying her team’s victory.

Mila Holloway contributed significantly as well, tallying 13 points while facilitating the game with eight assists and grabbing six rebounds. The Wolverines improved their home record to an impressive 11-0, with a season tally of 17 wins against three losses and an 8-1 mark in Big Ten play. Brooke Quarles Daniels also made her mark with 10 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, alongside teammates Syla Swords and Ashley Sofilkanich, who each added 10 points.

USC’s Struggles

On the other side of the court, USC’s Kara Dunn proved to be a formidable adversary, scoring 26 points and securing 10 rebounds, marking her sixth consecutive game with over 20 points. Londynn Jones and Jazzy Davidson supported Dunn with 12 and 11 points, respectively, with Davidson also contributing seven assists. However, USC has struggled recently, having lost six of their last seven games, which leaves them with an 11-9 record and a 3-6 standing in their conference.

Game Highlights

The game saw USC rally back dramatically when they were down 45-29 early in the third quarter, launching a stunning 27-5 scoring run that allowed them to briefly take a six-point lead. Dunn’s impressive performance during this period included multiple three-point plays. However, Michigan responded decisively with a 13-0 run to start the fourth quarter, reclaiming control of the game. Olson initiated the comeback with a layup, and Holloway finished it off with a pivotal three-pointer, pushing the score to 66-58, from which the Trojans would not recover.

Looking Ahead

Michigan heads to Indiana on Thursday, while USC will return home to face Iowa on the same day, as both teams look to regroup and refocus following this hard-fought contest.