Key Insights from the Oui-Play Paris Women’s Basketball Tipoff: USC’s Freshman Star Shines
The women’s college basketball season opened with a spotlight on two top-25 matchups at Aflac’s Oui-Play event in Paris. No. 3 USC narrowly avoided an upset, edging out No. 20 Ole Miss, 68-66, thanks to clutch free throws by Kiki Iriafen, while No. 5 UCLA defeated No. 17 Louisville, 66-59, fueled by a stellar performance from Lauren Betts.
Here’s what each team showed us in these marquee opening games:
USC’s Kennedy Smith Shows She’s Ready for the Big Stage
This season, USC’s highly-touted freshman is Kennedy Smith, ranked No. 6 in her class. She played a key role in the Trojans’ win, logging 37 minutes (second only to JuJu Watkins) and contributing 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and a block. Standing 6-foot-1, Smith impressed with her strength on both ends of the floor, showing the physical readiness often missing in freshmen. Coach Lindsay Gottlieb clearly has confidence in Smith, as evidenced by her heavy minutes in a tight game, and USC will rely on her along with Watkins and veteran transfers Iriafen and Talia von Oelhoffen.
Ole Miss Brings Defensive Intensity
Defense has long been a hallmark of Yolett McPhee-McCuin’s teams, and Ole Miss brought that energy against USC, forcing 26 turnovers and nearly closing a 15-point gap late in the game. Their defensive cohesion shone through, with six players recording multiple steals. Although they struggled offensively, shooting just 29.7% overall and 30.4% from three, the Rebels’ elite defense kept them competitive against a top team, signaling a strong season ahead.
Lauren Betts Dominates for UCLA
Lauren Betts wasted no time making a statement for UCLA, posting 18 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and a steal. Her efficiency was remarkable, shooting 75% (9 of 12) from the field. A strong finisher with improved footwork, Betts also orchestrates the offense, often drawing defenders to create open shots for teammates, including Timea Gardiner, who hit five three-pointers with Betts assisting on three of them. Betts is already emerging as a National Player of the Year contender.
Louisville’s Freshmen Show Potential
Louisville’s top freshman class debuted with impressive moments despite the loss to UCLA. Guard Tajianna Roberts led with 21 points, including four three-pointers, while fellow freshmen Mackenly Randolph and Imari Berry showed flashes of the scoring prowess they demonstrated in high school. Although they had some shooting struggles, the confidence and potential are evident. With continued growth, this young core promises a bright future for Louisville.
Each team showcased talent, grit, and areas to build on in what promises to be an exciting season.
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