UConn's fall in rankings sparks outrage after loss to USC
- Southern California women's basketball team achieved their first victory over UConn.
- This win helped USC move up to No. 4 in The Associated Press women's college basketball poll.
- The defeat dropped UConn to No. 7 in the rankings, impacting their standing in the national landscape.
In a significant matchup between southern California teams, the women's college basketball team from USC faced off against UConn on December 21, 2024. USC prevailed with a close score of 72-70, marking their first-ever win against UConn, a powerhouse in women's basketball. This victory came in the wake of a rematch from last season's Elite Eight, where UConn had previously eliminated USC from the tournament. After this remarkable win, USC climbed to the No. 4 spot in The Associated Press women's basketball poll, signaling their rise in the national rankings. UConn experienced a drop to No. 7 following this defeat, which impacted their standing among other teams such as Texas and LSU. USC's head coach, Lindsay Gottlieb, emphasized the significance of this victory in enhancing their team's confidence and growth, acknowledging UConn's exceptional legacy. As a result, UCLA, South Carolina, and Notre Dame maintained their positions as the top three ranked teams in women's basketball, with USC looking to build on this momentum in the upcoming matches. The implications of this win are substantial, as it not only influences the rankings but also affects the narrative in women's college basketball, where strong matchups can shift perceptions of teams significantly. Coaches and players alike recognize how this victory against a storied program can motivate future performances and enhance the overall competitiveness of the league.