In a thrilling revelation from the heart of college basketball, USC’s Kennedy Smith has opened up about the fierce rivalry with UCLA that is electrifying the women’s game this season. Speaking on the latest episode of the Sports Central podcast, the sophomore standout reflected on the intense atmosphere surrounding the USC-UCLA matchups, declaring them among the best rivalries in the nation.

Smith, a former Edetoanda star, emphasized the competitive spirit that fuels this rivalry, stating, “We want to claim the crown of being the best women’s basketball team in LA.” The palpable tension in the locker room before facing the Bruins is a testament to the high stakes involved, with Smith recalling the thrill of last year’s clashes. “Those games were some of the most fun I’ve ever had,” she said, highlighting the electric energy and relentless trash-talking that characterize these encounters.

The rivalry not only ignites passion among players but also elevates the women’s game in Los Angeles, a city brimming with basketball talent. Smith noted that younger girls look up to their rivalry as a beacon of competitive excellence, inspiring them to reach for the highest levels of the sport. With both USC and UCLA ranked among the top five teams in the nation, the stakes have never been higher.

As the season heats up, all eyes will be on USC and UCLA as they prepare to battle for supremacy in Los Angeles. The excitement is palpable, and fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry. Tune in to the full podcast episode on kcownews.com or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the insights from Kennedy Smith and more!