USC Women's Basketball: Senior Unpacks Clutch Pac-12 Tournament Defense Vs Arizona

She showed out.

Last week, USC needed to take Arizona to double-overtime. This week, the Trojans finished them off in regulation during their first Pac-12 Tournament matchup, 65-62. 

Following the bout Thursday, senior guard Kayla Williams unpacked her lethal defensive effort with USC reporter Keely Eure. In 12 minutes, Williams notched one board and one steal, while scoring four points on 2-of-3 shooting from the floor.

“Obviously the main thing is going to be to focus on us…Make sure we’re ready physically and mentally for the game tomorrow.”

After a key defensive performance for @USCWBB, @Kayla_bucketz spoke with @keelyismyname about advancing to the semifinals of the Pac-12 Tournament ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/lxK5mKPVk6

— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) March 8, 2024

“Just bringing energy on the defensive end," Williams offered. "I know that our team is very talented on the offensive end so I try to contribute a little more on the other side of the floor... I'm pretty good at [making opponents turn] the ball over so I think that's something I know I can bring, and that's what I try to do every day. Sometimes it's not always steals, but it's kind of just getting up in them and making the other team think more and use more of the shot clock."

When asked how the team was prepping for its followup Semifinals match on a quick turnaround tonight, before she knew who the opposition would be (it's going to be the UCLA Bruins), Williams offered a concise plan.

"Obviously the main thing is going to be to focus on us… Make sure we’re ready physically and mentally for the game tomorrow.”