Avent Scores 16 As Women’s Basketball Falls At USC

LOS ANGELES – A big first quarter by USC was the difference as TSU dropped a 77-45 road decision Saturday afternoon at the Galen Center.

TSU started off on a solid note as they trailed 8-6 with 4:53 remaining after an Amaz Carmichael layup. TSU would force a turnover on USC’s next possession but couldn’t capitalize. USC missed a three-pointer on its next possession but back-to-back TSU turnovers led to consecutive three-pointers from USC and a 14-6 deficit. USC would close out the quarter on a 15-4 run which was fueled by eight TSU turnovers as they trailed 23-8 at the end of the quarter.

TSU would draw to within 14 on two occasions midway through the second quarter. USC would answer back with a 13-5 run to end the quarter as TSU only hit one field goal from that point as they trailed 42-19 at the half.

Despite the setback, TSU kept fighting as the game went on in the second half. The offense came alive in the fourth quarter as they shot 60 percent from beyond the arc while connecting on seven field goals.

Andriana Avent led TSU with 16 points while Alisa Knight, Jada Perry and Carmichael had five rebounds each. Jala Buster blocked three shots followed by four assists from Ashley Austin.

TSU’s two-day tournament at Tulane scheduled for Monday and Tuesday has been canceled due to Tulane’s temporary shutdown of its women’s basketball team. TSU is back in action on Wednesday at 12 p.m. as they’ll host the University of Virginia inside the H&PE Arena.