After tough losses, the USC Trojans bounced back in dominant fashion, defeating the Oregon Ducks in a straight-set win. The victory marked an important response for the Trojans, who showed renewed focus and energy on both ends of the court.
Redshirt sophomore London Wijay led the Trojans’ offensive effort with 12 kills, setting the tone early with her aggressive play at the net. Freshman Reese Messer continued to impress as she recorded 31 assists, efficiently running the offense and spreading the ball across multiple hitters. Freshman Taylor Deckert added 15 digs, helping anchor the defense and contributing to USC’s impressive .300 team hitting percentage.
Photo Cred: USC
Head coach Brad Keller praised his team’s ability to adjust after last weekend’s disappointing road losses to Indiana and Purdue.
“I thought they did very well [reacting and anticipating] the ball until the third set. I called a timeout and got a little upset. I think I was more bothered than the team was for a longer period of time…because you sit in it and you’re trying to figure things out,” Keller said.
Keller emphasized that this win was as much about resilience as it was about execution. The team’s improved anticipation and ball control reflected a noticeable step forward in maturity and focus.
Senior Dani Thomas-Nathan was another standout performer, providing veteran leadership and poise throughout the match. She finished with 16 digs, helping USC maintain its defensive stability and momentum.
“I have to give a special shout-out to Danni Thomas-Nathan,” said Keller. “Danni came in and set the tone for our team. Not only the service pressure she was giving — which, that’s an amazing serve — but I think she was lights out in the passing lanes, and there was a calming influence she gave us.”
For Oregon, freshman Alanah Clemente led the team with 13 kills, while junior Valentina Vaulet followed closely behind with 11. Despite a solid .247 hitting percentage, the Ducks struggled to sustain long rallies against USC’s aggressive defensive play. Senior Cora Taylor paced Oregon with 26 assists, and freshman Reese Sheppard contributed 19 digs in the loss.
With the win, USC continues to build momentum heading into a crucial rivalry matchup against UCLA on October 11. Meanwhile, Oregon will look to regroup when it returns home to face Washington on October 12 in Eugene.
