First top-25 women’s college basketball matchups of the season did not disappoint

The GIST: If Monday’s opening day slate of women’s college basketball games is any indication, we’re due for an absolutely wild season ahead. Bring on the drama.

No. 3 USC escapes No. 20 Ole Miss in Paris: Playing in the second annual Aflac Oui-Play doubleheader in the City of Lights, the Rebels gave USC everything they could handle, forcing 26 turnovers but ultimately falling just short in the 68–66 Trojans W. USC’s dynamic duo, JuJu Watkins and Kiki Iriafen, each did their part to save the day, netting 27 and 22 points, respectively. Phew.

Lauren Betts leads No. 5 UCLA to win over No. 17 Louisville: Also in Paris, the junior started her Player of the Year campaign off strong, posting 18 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks to lead the Bruins to a 66–59 win. As for the Cardinals, senior Ja’Leah Williams kept them in the game, nearly dropping a casual triple-double.

Michigan tests defending champs, No. 1 South Carolina: Wolverines freshman Syla Swords scored a game-high 27 points, helping her team push South Carolina to the brink, before eventually falling 68–62.

• In other SC news, the August 31st assault and kidnapping charges against junior forward Ashlyn Watkins have reportedly been dropped, though Watkins remains suspended from the team.