USC’s Free Throws Crucial in Overtime

Tammy Story scored five of her nine points on free throws in overtime to help the USC women defeat Washington State, 71-65, Friday night at USC’s Lyon Center.

Lisa Leslie’s layup with less than a minute to play in regulation had given the Trojans a 59-57 lead, but Washington State’s Heather Norman tied the game with a layup as time expired.

USC (11-5, 4-2 in Pacific 10 play) scored eight of its 12 points in overtime on free throws.

Darci Wellsandt had 27 points for Washington State (10-6, 2-4). Leslie led USC with 26 points and a season-high 16 rebounds.

USC held Washington State to 31% shooting in the first half as the Trojans took a 31-20 lead. But the Cougars used a 15-5 second-half run to get back in the game.