WOMEN’S BASKETBALL : USC and UCLA Gain Victories

USC broke a 29-29 halftime tie to sweep past Pepperdine, 76-61, Tuesday night in the second game of a women’s basketball doubleheader at the Lyon Center.

After sinking 41.9% of their shots in the first half, the Trojans made 55.2% in the second half before a crowd of 500.

Jualeah Woods had 17 points, Lisa Leslie 16, Nicky McCrimmon 14 and Joni Easterly 11 for the No. 14-ranked Trojans (5-1). Leslie, who played 19 minutes, fouled out with 1:52 to play.

The Waves (4-5) were led by Heather Groves with 14. Tonight at the Lyon Center, Pepperdine will play UCLA and Michigan State will face USC.

UCLA 82, Michigan State 57--Natalie Williams had 23 points and 21 rebounds in the first game at the Lyon Center before 350.

Michigan State (4-3) was not closer than 10 points in the second half.

Williams was eight for 16 from the floor and 10 of her rebounds were on the offensive end. Nicole Anderson added 13 points, and Amy Jalewalia had season-high totals of 12 points, nine rebounds, four assists and four steals for the Bruins (2-4). Kisha Kelley led Michigan State with 16 points.