Team Battle Ends in USC Victory Over Washington State
In a tightly contested Pac-12 matchup on December 14, 2025, the University of Southern California edged Washington State 68-61 behind a productive all-around effort from Jacob Cofie. The Trojans showed resilience on both ends of the floor, earning a hard-fought win at home and handing the Cougars a setback in a game that featured several momentum swings.
Cofie Leads USC with a Double-Double Night
Jacob Cofie was the standout on USC’s roster, finishing with 21 points on 9-for-12 shooting and pulling down 10 rebounds. His efficiency in the paint and around the glass gave the Trojans a reliable source of offense after periods of stagnant scoring. Cofie’s inside presence forced Washington State to key in on the post, opening up opportunities for teammates and contributing to USC’s ability to maintain a modest scoring margin throughout the night.
Chad Baker-Mazara Delivers 19 Points in a Mixed Night
Chad Baker-Mazara contributed 19 points for USC, though his shooting line showed a tougher night at 4-for-11 from the field and 0-for-5 from three-point range. His ability to still impact the game—drawing contact, getting to the foul line, and moving without the ball—helped USC stabilize its offense during droughts. Baker-Mazara’s performance underscored the team’s depth, as USC found scoring in multiple avenues even when one contributor wasn’t at his sharpest from behind the arc.
Defensive Stance and Team Effort
Defensively, USC clamped down when it mattered most, limiting Washington State’s ability to convert crucial possessions in key runs. The Trojans’ rotations and rebounding effort helped mitigate the Cougars’ attempts to close the gap in the second half. While Washington State kept the game competitive, USC’s ability to protect the paint and stay organized on switches proved pivotal in a game decided by late possessions.
Stat Snapshot and Game Flow
The final score of 68-61 reflects a game where lead changes were tempered by strong defensive stretches from USC. Both teams traded baskets during the opening portions, but USC created separation through efficient ball movement and selective post opportunities. Washington State remained within striking distance, relying on a balance of perimeter shooting and interior chances, yet the Trojans’ consistency in the paint carried them home.
What This Win Means Moving Forward
For USC, the victory adds an important conference win and demonstrates the team’s ability to win even when one of its scorers is facing a rough shooting night. The depth chart’s contributions—Cofie’s double-double and Baker-Mazara’s 19 points—highlight USC’s versatility and readiness to win on a night when leadership shows up in multiple forms. The win also sets a tone for upcoming conference play, signaling that USC can compete with teams that pressure the ball and contest interior scoring.
Key Takeaways
- Jacob Cofie anchored USC with 21 points and 10 boards on efficient shooting (9-for-12).
- Chad Baker-Mazara produced 19 points despite a down shooting night from the field and from distance.
- USC’s defense clamped down in crucial moments, helping secure the 7-point final margin.
- Washington State showed resilience but couldn’t find enough late stops to complete the comeback.
As the season unfolds, USC will look to sustain this mix of inside scoring and balanced guard play, while Washington State eyes adjustments that can translate into more sustained scoring runs against quality opponents.
