EAST LANSING, Mich. (Interstat) — Michigan State defeated Southern California 74-68 in a women’s NCAA Division I basketball game Thursday night at Breslin Events Center.

The Spartans used a strong first quarter, taking a 24-17 lead, and held off multiple rallies by the Women of Troy. Southern California closed to within two points in the fourth quarter but could not complete the comeback. Michigan State’s advantage at the free-throw line, making 19 of 24 attempts compared to USC’s 7 of 8, proved critical.

Kara Dunn led Southern California with 23 points, while Jazzy Davidson added 21 points and five blocks. Kennedy Blair paced Michigan State with 21 points. The Spartans improved to 18-2, while the Women of Troy fell to 11-8.