On January 3, 2026, the UCLA Bruins defeated the USC Trojans 80-46 in a decisive women’s basketball game at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles. This match showcased the rising prominence of women’s basketball in the region, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 11,241 fans and a national audience via streaming service Peacock.
The Bruins, ranked No. 4, displayed strong teamwork and skill throughout the game. UCLA’s head coach, Cori Close, reflected on the significance of the event, noting that legendary coach John Wooden would have appreciated the style and substance of the women’s game. Close, who had a close relationship with Wooden, stated, “I think that the reason he said that his favorite form of basketball, in his later years, was the women’s college game, was because of the teamwork aspect.”
This game was not just a rivalry; it symbolized the growth of women’s basketball in Los Angeles. Close emphasized her commitment to promoting the sport, particularly in a city that boasts two competitive programs. Her counterpart at USC, Lindsay Gottlieb, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We know we’ve got two good basketball teams… We don’t take that for granted.”
Despite the significant loss, Gottlieb remains optimistic about her team’s potential. The Trojans, who won the Big Ten regular season title last year, are currently adjusting to a new roster, with only three players returning from the previous season. One key storyline from the matchup was the performance of Londynn Jones, a transfer from UCLA, who struggled against her former team.
The rivalry between the two schools is storied, and both teams aspire to elevate women’s basketball further. Close remarked on the collaborative spirit shared between the two coaches, saying, “One thing that we really share is that we want to grow the game in L.A., together.”
Players also expressed the importance of the support from fans. Kiki Rice, a guard for UCLA, stated, “To see the support that we have… it really means a lot for women’s basketball.” The electric atmosphere in the arena, amplified by a vocal crowd, enhances the experience for both players and fans alike.
The event attracted notable figures, including former basketball stars Reggie and Cheryl Miller, and U.S. women’s soccer legend Abby Wambach, highlighting the crossover appeal of women’s sports in Los Angeles. Close noted the excitement surrounding the game, recalling a conversation with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, who expressed a keen interest in attending.
Despite the challenges faced in media coverage for women’s sports, Close remains passionate about advocating for greater visibility. She pointed out the need for continued progress: “We’ve earned more… We need to keep pushing. There’s still more we can do.”
The rivalry’s significance extends beyond the court, representing a broader movement towards equality and recognition in women’s sports. Both UCLA and USC are committed to fostering an environment that celebrates their athletes and the game itself, a mission that resonates with players and fans alike.
As the season progresses, both teams aim to build upon their successes and further contribute to the thriving landscape of women’s basketball in Los Angeles.
