SPORTS

USC wins tight 10-9 NCAA women's water polo title

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LA JOLLA, Calif. — Sinia Plotz scored to begin each half and Anna Reed made 10 saves as Southern California edged California 10-9 at the Canyonview Aquatic Center to win the Trojans' seventh NCAA women's water polo championship. The victory gave coach Casey Moon his first title in his second season; USC last claimed the championship in 2021. No. 3 seed USC reached the final after an 11-10 semifinal win over second-seeded UCLA. The match featured multiple lead changes, power-play goals and late scoring sequences. Early in the game Holly Dunn scored on a power play with 23 seconds left in the first quarter to tie it, but Ava Stryker answered with seven seconds remaining to put USC ahead 3-2. Emily Ausmus and Stryker pushed USC in front 6-3 before Eszter Varro scored twice to cut the deficit. USC led 7-6 at halftime. Plotz opened the second half for another two-goal lead; Meghan McAninch added a power-play goal, and Despoina Drakotou converted a 5-meter penalty with 5:23 left to provide the final margin. Cal, the fourth-seeded Golden Bears (16-8), reached the title game after upsetting top-ranked Stanford 13-11 in the semifinals under coach Coralie Simmons.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2021: USC previously won its most recent national championship before this event.
Early 2024 season: USC and Cal advanced through the NCAA tournament bracket to reach the final.
Sunday night: The NCAA championship match took place at Canyonview Aquatic Center between USC and California.
During the final: Sinia Plotz scored to begin each half and Anna Reed recorded 10 saves in a 10-9 USC win.
Postgame: USC earned its seventh national title and coach Casey Moon his first championship in season two.

Why This Matters to You

This win showcases the grit and determination of women in sports. It's a reminder that perseverance pays off, whether you're a player or a fan. If you have kids in sports, share this story. It's a great lesson in never giving up.

The Bottom Line

USC's thrilling victory marks their seventh NCAA women's water polo championship. It's a testament to the team's hard work and the leadership of coach Casey Moon. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves a good underdog story.