USC sends message with upset of No. 8 Iowa

LOS ANGELES — On January 29, 2026, USC did more than beat a Top 10 basketball team. They shifted the tone of the Big Ten Conference race.

The Trojans delivered one of their most complete performances of the season in an 81–69 win over No. 8 Iowa at the Galen Center, snapping the Hawkeyes’ eight-game winning streak and handing them their first conference loss after a dominant 9–0 start in league play.

This was intentional basketball from start to finish.

Setting the Tone Early

One thing that stood out immediately was Jazzy Davidson setting the tone early.

She took one of USC’s first shots of the night and also the final shot of the opening quarter, a subtle but powerful sign of confidence and trust.

For a freshman, her poise stands out. She does not look rushed or overwhelmed. She looks comfortable, like she understands moments, not just possessions.

When asked about her early aggression, Davidson emphasized hunting the best shot, not forcing plays. But when the advantage is there, she attacks.

That mindset, confident but controlled, is why she is growing into a leader USC leans on to establish rhythm and composure. She finished with 21 points and 8 assists, influencing the game as both scorer and facilitator.

Veteran Presence, Milestone Night

While Davidson controlled the flow, Kara Dunn anchored the performance.

Dunn scored 25 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and added 5 assists. Early in the game, she also reached the 1,500-point milestone of her career, a reflection of her consistency and leadership.

She was steady, physical, and dependable, exactly what USC needed against a ranked opponent.

Londynn Jones added 17 points, stretching the defense and ensuring Iowa could not key in on one scorer. That balance made USC difficult to guard at every level.

Limiting Mistakes Means Controlling the Game

One of the clearest differences in the game came down to discipline.

USC committed just 5 turnovers, an elite number in a fast-paced matchup. That ball security allowed the Trojans to dictate tempo, get quality shots, and prevent Iowa from finding easy transition points.

Possession after possession, USC played under control. They attacked when reads were there, moved the ball when help came, and trusted each other to make the next play.

That is how you beat top teams, not just with talent, but with execution.

A 40-Minute Performance

USC led from the start and never relinquished control. Every time Iowa tried to tighten the game, USC answered with composure, a sign of growth for a team that has been learning how to close.

They did not just win stretches. They won possessions. Over 40 minutes, that added up.

This game showed a team developing identity, early aggression, balanced scoring, veteran leadership, freshman poise, and attention to detail.

What stood out after the final buzzer was something USC fans have come to expect. The players made their way around the court, taking time to connect with supporters in the stands.

Players, including JuJu, shared hugs, high fives, autographs, and conversations with fans, showing genuine appreciation for the people who show up night after night. It reflects a selfless culture one built not just on sharing the ball on the court, but sharing the moment with the community that supports them. The relationship between this team and its fan base clearly goes beyond the scoreboard.

Looking Ahead

For USC, this was not just a win. It was a statement to the conference.

The Trojans now turn their focus to their next matchup Sunday, Feb. 1 at 2:00 PM, hosting Rutgers at the Galen Center, looking to build on this momentum and continue climbing in the Big Ten race.

Game Facts and Context — USC vs. No. 8 Iowa

• Final Score: USC 81, No. 8 Iowa 69

• Iowa entered the game 9–0 in conference play and near the top of the Big Ten standings

• Kara Dunn: 25 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, reached 1,500 career points

• Jazzy Davidson: 21 points, 8 assists, set the tone early offensively

• USC committed just 5 turnovers, controlling pace and possessions

Cover Art/Photo credit: Los Angeles,- CA on Jan 29,2026 USC guard Jazzy Davidson (9) dribbles the ball during the game at Galen Center. Photo Credit: Ardie Crenshaw / News 4 Us Online