UPDATE: In a stunning display of skill, the No. 4 UCLA Bruins crushed the No. 17 USC Trojans 80-46 on January 3, 2026, at Pauley Pavilion in Westwood, CA, solidifying the growing excitement around women’s basketball in Los Angeles. The game drew a lively crowd of 11,241 fans and was streamed nationally on Peacock, highlighting the sport’s expanding reach.
UCLA’s head coach, Cori Close, expressed pride in her team’s performance, reflecting on the legacy of the legendary coach John Wooden. “He always valued teamwork and the life lessons that come from pursuing excellence,” Close noted, suggesting that Wooden would have appreciated the camaraderie and skill displayed by today’s players.
Both teams are committed to elevating women’s basketball in L.A. “We know we have star power and excellent players,” said USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb. The rivalry is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to showcase the talent and depth of women’s sports. Despite a tough loss, Gottlieb remains optimistic, stating, “This is more of an anomaly than not.”
The game featured intense competition with standout performances from players like UCLA’s Gabriela Jaquez and Kiki Rice. The Bruins took control early, demonstrating their dominance and skill. The atmosphere was electric, with notable spectators including USC and UCLA legends Cheryl and Reggie Miller, as well as U.S. women’s soccer icon Abby Wambach.
Close has been vocal about the media’s role in promoting women’s sports, sharing her frustration after a recent game where no media attended post-game interviews. “We’ve earned more,” she declared, emphasizing the need for continued growth and recognition of women’s athletics. Her passion for the sport and its future resonates with players and fans alike.
UCLA and USC’s rivalry isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about elevating the status of women’s basketball in the region. “It really means a lot for women’s basketball,” said Bruins’ player Kiki Rice, highlighting the importance of support from fans and the media.
As the season progresses, both teams are poised to make significant impacts, and the narrative surrounding women’s basketball in Los Angeles is only set to grow. Keep an eye on these teams as they continue to battle for supremacy and push the envelope for women’s sports visibility.
With this victory, UCLA not only enhances their standing but also ignites a renewed interest in women’s basketball, making it clear that the future is bright for the sport in Los Angeles. Expect more thrilling matchups and compelling stories as the season unfolds.
