USC Trojans vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs: A March Madness Second-Round Showdown
The excitement of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament is reaching fever pitch as the second round gets underway. One highly anticipated matchup on Monday pits the top-seeded Southern California Trojans against the ninth-seeded Mississippi State Bulldogs. This clash promises a compelling contest between two teams with contrasting styles, both vying for a coveted spot in the Sweet Sixteen.
USC enters the game riding high after a dominant regular season that secured them a No. 1 seed in the tournament. They convincingly dispatched UNC Greensboro in the first round, showcasing the offensive firepower and defensive prowess that made them a force to be reckoned with throughout the year. Led by a talented roster featuring potential All-Americans and seasoned veterans, the Trojans are eager to prove their championship mettle and make a deep run in the tournament.
Mississippi State, on the other hand, earned their place in the second round with an impressive victory over Cal. The Bulldogs, known for their grit and tenacity, demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity and execute their game plan under pressure. As a No. 9 seed, they are embracing the underdog role and are determined to disrupt the bracket by pulling off another upset.
The game presents a fascinating contrast in styles. USC boasts a high-octane offense that can score from anywhere on the court. Their perimeter players are adept at creating their own shots, while their post players possess the size and skill to dominate inside. Defensively, the Trojans are aggressive and disciplined, forcing turnovers and limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities.
Mississippi State relies on a more deliberate approach, emphasizing ball control, strong defense, and timely shooting. They excel at executing their plays in the half-court, and their ability to control the tempo of the game could be crucial in slowing down USC’s explosive offense. The Bulldogs’ defensive intensity is a hallmark of their team, and they will need to be at their best to contain the Trojans’ dynamic scorers.
Experts from across the USA TODAY Network are divided on who will emerge victorious. The predictions reflect the close nature of the matchup and the potential for either team to advance.
Sam Sklar of the Clarion Ledger predicts a 75-64 victory for USC. He notes that while Mississippi State has the potential to win, they will need to play nearly flawlessly. Taking care of the basketball and replicating their defensive effort from the first round will be critical. However, Sklar believes that USC’s offensive firepower, particularly in front of a supportive home crowd, will be too much for the Bulldogs to handle.
Nancy Armour, Jordan Mendoza, Sydney Henderson, Meg L. Hall of For The Win, and Cora Hall of the Knoxville News all predict a USC victory. Their collective confidence in the Trojans suggests a belief that USC’s overall talent and depth will ultimately prove decisive.
The game is expected to be a physical and intense battle. Rebounding will be a key factor, as both teams possess strong interior players who will battle for position. The team that controls the boards will gain a significant advantage in terms of second-chance points and offensive possessions.
Turnovers will also be a critical area to watch. Mississippi State’s ability to protect the ball against USC’s pressure defense will be essential to their chances of success. Conversely, USC must avoid careless turnovers that could fuel Mississippi State’s offense and momentum.
The performance of key players will undoubtedly influence the outcome of the game. For USC, their star players will need to lead the way, delivering strong offensive performances and making crucial plays in key moments. Mississippi State will need significant contributions from their key players, who will need to step up and perform at their best. The role players on both teams will also need to contribute, providing valuable minutes and supporting their star teammates.
The atmosphere in the arena is expected to be electric, with a raucous crowd cheering on the Trojans. The home-court advantage could provide a significant boost to USC, giving them an extra edge in a close game. However, Mississippi State has demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, and they will not be intimidated by the hostile environment.
The game is scheduled to be broadcast on Fubo, offering fans the opportunity to witness the action live. This second-round matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between two talented teams with contrasting styles. With a spot in the Sweet Sixteen on the line, both USC and Mississippi State will be giving it their all. Basketball enthusiasts should tune in to witness this exciting clash of titans.
Beyond this game, fans should be sure to check out USA TODAY’s complete March Madness bracket breakdown for in-depth analysis of all the matchups. It also is worth checking out some of the tournament upset picks and players who could make a splash, as the NCAA tournament can be a volatile time. Regardless, this game promises to deliver excitement, tension, and a memorable moment in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of USC or Mississippi State, or simply a lover of college basketball, this is a game you won’t want to miss.
