INDIANAPOLIS – So many eyes have been on trained on Cam Ward lately – those of NFL coaches, scouts, executives, fans and even his peers at the scouting combine this week.

But nobody was watching more closely Friday than Ward’s parents.

Most recently an All-American quarterback for the University of Miami (Fla.), Ward answered questions from a crush of media members surrounding his podium from all sides like a relentless pass rush. Off to one side, his mother, Patrice, and father, Calvin, paid rapt attention to their son’s answers.

And then the inevitable query came, the one wondering whether Ward was getting any blowback from NFL teams for sitting out the second half of last season’s Pop-Tarts Bowl after he’d just set a new Division I record for career touchdown passes (158) prior to halftime. (Miami eventually lost the game to Iowa State after coughing up the lead in the second half but, per a CBS report, never planned to play Ward beyond the second quarter.)

“No discussion at all,” Ward said of the controversy. “At the end of the day, it’s March. Bowl game’s in December. At some point, you’ve got to move on. I’ve never lived my life in the past, I don’t who would want to live their life in the past.

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“I’ll take it on the chin, you know, I’ll just keep pushing every day.”

That direct answer issued, Patrice Ward then turned to her husband and broke into a huge smile.

It was the best part of a news conference that Ward, who might be the No. 1 overall pick in April’s draft, essentially seemed to ace and should only further boost his stock for the quarterback-needy clubs atop the board.

“I’m willing to do anything, you know, that it takes to win a football game, whether it’s being a gunslinger all day or if I have to hand the ball off a couple times,” said Ward.

“At the end of the day, I know what type of player I am, (and) the teams should know what type of player they’re getting in me. And so, you know, I’m just going out there and trying to do my best for myself and my future teammates.”

Ward’s previous teammates – and there have been quite a few – seem to swear by him.

“Playing with Cam Ward was great. He came into the program, he changed it all, we all learned from him, and we just became one once he got into the facility,” Hurricanes receiver Jacolby George told USA TODAY Sports.

“His personality was a big part of how we played our season and how we did so good. I feel like he’s the reason why we had that winning season, and he’s the reason we stuck together.”

Said Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo of his former quarterback: “He’s the ultimate guy, ultimate teammate. Everybody sees what he does on the field and his confidence and everything. But the biggest thing I’d say is just the type of leader he is. From Day One, he brought the team together.

“He’s not afraid to hold people accountable. He wants to win, and he holds the team to a certain standard.”

Miami went 10-3 in 2024, Ward’s only season in Coral Gables, after he transferred in following two seasons at Washington State. Prior to that, his college career began inauspiciously in San Antonio at the University of the Incarnate Word, an FCS program – and the only school to offer him a scholarship after a high school career spent playing in a Wing-T offense.

“At the end of the day, you never know where football will take you,” said Ward.

Soon, it’s likely to take him to a struggling NFL operation. Ward has already met with the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets – all teams slotted among the draft’s top seven picks and all in need of a franchise quarterback. He was clearly very familiar with all of those squads’ circumstances yet focused on the positive aspects of landing with any of them.

“It’s crazy to see how everything can change, so I’m not worried about no spotlight,” said Ward, who also played very well at Wazzu during the two years before the Pac-12 splintered.

“At the end of the day, the camera’s gonna find you if you’re a franchise quarterback somewhere. So I just put my head down and work every day.”

And the work paid off in college. Ward led the country with 39 touchdown passes in 2024 on his way to being named the ACC’s Player of the Year and winning the Davey O’Brien Award as college football’s best quarterback.

In addition to an alpha persona, he’s got a high-velocity, accurate arm and is more than capable of making things happen with his legs when required – though Ward says his best on-field trait is “winning from the pocket.”

“If you can’t win in the pocket,” he said, “you’ll never be successful.”

That seemed to be part of a pattern. Ward, who won’t work out during the combine’s quarterback drills Saturday, was quick to cite his intangibles as strengths – mindset, preparation, approach, work ethic, maximization of opportunities – rather than his estimable physical ability.

And he oozed confidence and maturity amid a no-frills demeanor, parrying criticism with thoughtful answers. After being asked about the Pop-Tarts Bowl, he engaged with the notion that he holds onto the ball too long at times.

“If you have time in the pocket, why would you not hold the ball and let your receivers get open?” Ward retorted – while crediting the ‘Canes line for giving him the luxury to extend plays.

“If you’re able to make plays out of structure, of course you’re going to hold the ball and try to make a play to get your receivers open.”

Yet it is Ward’s leadership that seems likely to serve him best as he moves forward into what’s likely to be – at least initially – a challenging situation. And he already seems to have a pretty good idea of how to initially relate with established professionals who may not be readily inclined to listen to a 22-year-old.

“Just holding people accountable,” Ward said of his approach, nothing he also wouldn’t be scolding teammates he’s just getting to know. “I’m not no rah-rah guy. At this point in your career in the NFL, you shouldn’t need somebody to motivate you every day, you have to be self-motivated. That’s the type of person I am, that’s the type of leader I am.

“Throughout college, I’ve grown to be more vocal. But at the end of the day, it’s all about leading by example,” he continued. “The quarterback will always be the highest-paid player on the team, and he has to showcase that skill every Sunday and every day throughout the facility to his teammates. I just think I’ll be one of those guys in the long run, and I’m looking forward to it.”

And, just maybe, Ward will make the fans and teammates at his next destination just as proud as his parents are.

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Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones said during the 4 Nations Face-Off break that he ‘would like to give myself a chance to win in my career.’

His wish was granted on Saturday when the 31st-place Blackhawks traded him to the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.

The Panthers send goalie Spencer Knight to Chicago, plus a 2026 conditional first-round pick that could become a 2027 pick. The Blackhawks retain 26% of Jones’ remaining contract, which runs through 2029-30 at a cap hit of $9.5 million. Florida also gets a 2026 fourth-round pick.

Grading Saturday’s trade between the Blackhawks and Panthers:

Panthers trade grade: B

Jones is a right-shot defenseman, which is coveted around the league, and he averages more than 24 minutes a night. The Panthers lost defenseman Brandon Montour (a right shot) and Oliver Ekman-Larsson to free agency after their Cup win, so Jones fills some of that loss. His numbers haven’t popped recently but how much of that was being on a bad team? His combined -108 over four seasons in Chicago should improve on a better team. Jones’ long-term contract will help with defenseman Aaron Ekblad and Nate Schmidt in the final years of their contract. Knight was supposed to eventually replace Sergei Bobrovsky as the Panthers’ top goalie, but it didn’t look like it was going to happen.

Blackhawks trade grade: B

This story has updated with new information.

Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis didn’t lose the fight, but he lost his aura of invincibility.

His fight Saturday with heavy underdog Lamont Roach Jr. ended in a majority draw.

Davis (30-0-1) and Roach (25-1-2) traded big shots over the 12-round lightweight fight at New York’s Barclays Center and, incredibly enough, Roach ended the fight on his feet.

The judges scored it 115-113 (for Davis), 114-114 and 114-114.

“Hopefully we can get a rematch,’’ Davis said.

Before the fight, Davis said Roach would be the most skilled boxer he’s faced. It was no exaggeration, even though Davis did retain his WBA lightweight world title.

“For sure, Lamont is a great fighter. He’s got the skill, like I said before,’ Davis said. ‘He got punching power.’’ 

Both fighters were cautious early, but by midway through the fight, punches were flying and landing.

“I’m one of the best fighters in the world, and I showed that tonight,’’ Roach said, indicating he wants a rematch. “I want to run it back for sure.’’

Davis-Roach controversy

Is Davis’ hairdresser to blame for Roach having to settle for a majority draw Saturday night?

Or is referee Steve Willis to blame?

Early in the ninth round, Davis took a knee.

Willis may have been able to rule it a knockdown, which would have resulted in a one-point deduction for Davis on all three judges’ scorecards.

But Willis allowed Davis to go to his corner without penalty. The fighter later said the incident was all the result of getting his hair done.

“I just got my hair done two days ago,’’ Davis said during a post-fight interview in the ring, explaining that sweat led to grease getting into his eye.

The explanation apparently did not go over well with the crowd, which booed.

“Damn, why you all booing?’’ said Davis.

One of the judges scored the fight 115-113 in favor of Davis and two scored it 114-114. A one-point deduction presumably would have changed two judges’ scorecards to 114-113 in favor of Roach and the third judge 114-113 for Davis – creating a split-decision victory for Roach.

“If that’s a knockdown I win the fight,’’ Roach said. But in welcoming a rematch, he also said, “It is what it is.’’

Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach Jr. declared majority draw

Round 1

Lamont Roach Jr. throws a right to the body. It misses. But he’s still on his feet. Call it a victory for Roach. Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis showing no interest in opening up early. Roach throws a couple of jabs and that could be enough to seal this round. Half a dozen and Davis finally throws a punch – a right that does not land. Roach is the aggressor, but with caution. Davis scores with a halfhearted left. Roach 10, Davis 9.

Round 2

Roach opens with a couple of left jabs and this remains tactical. He throws a right. And a left. Davis looks to be content watching the punches miss. Davis lures Roach into the corner but Roach won’t take the bait. He keeps a wise distance. Davis fires a hard left. Then a right. But nothing for the highlight reel. Davis slightly more active. Slightly. Roach 20, Davis 18.

Round 3

Roach attacks with a left. Davis fends it off. Boxers still very careful here, although Roach is the technical aggressor. Davis fires a left and a right but looks tentative. Davis smiles as he sees Roach flinch. Davis scores with a left and Roach answers with a nice left. Scores with a chopping right. Davis connects with a left. Roach 29, Davis 28.

Round 4

Roach out quick behind left jabs. Davis unleashes a nice left and scores to the body. Roach wraps him up and fires a right. Davis loosening up, on his toes and fires a couple of rights. Neither connect, but he’s busier. A little showmanship from Davis. But where’s the big punch? Roach lands a nice left while Davis is complaining to the ref. Roach 38, Davis 38.

Round 5

Roach is the aggressor, but not showing a ton of confidence as he “stalks.’’ Fires his jab. He squeezes a right through Davis’ high guard. But Davis is deflecting most of the punches coming his way. Not a fan-friendly affair to this point. They trade lefts and Roach shows some aggression. Davis connects with a solid left and Roach looks agitated. Roach talking to Davis and closes the round with a jab to Davis’ face. But Davis scored effectively to the body. Davis 48, Roach 47.

Round 6

Davis, angered by a potential low blow, unleashes a flurry of punches. Roach’s body is the target. Davis unloads with a left with KO power, but it misses. They’re at the center of the ring now, and Davis lets fly with a couple of lefts to the body. Roach answers, only to be hit again. Davis connects with both hands and looks increasingly confident. Davis lands another good left. Davis 58, Roach 56.

Round 7

Roach marches forward and fires a left and right, then doubles up to the body. Not sure if anything landed. Davis smiling. Takes a left, and answers with a left. Davis surges behind two lefts. Connects with an uppercut. Roach scores but takes a hard left and then a hard right. Davis sticks out his tongue. Roach lands a hard right! And a second right. Roach showing courage. Great exchange as the round ends, and Roach puts together his best round. Davis 67, Roach 66.

Round 8

Roach inching forward but showing more caution now. May be able to give CompuBox the round off. Roach throws a double jab and Davis darts in only to be tied up. They exchange punches. Davis lands a hard right and then looks stunned by a counter right. Roach lands another solid right and eats a left, but he’s on his feet. Bell rings and Davis taps Roach as if acknowledging his worthy effort. Davis 76, Roach 76.

Round 9

Roach standing his ground. Takes a left and fires back with a right. Davis takes a knee. He went to his corner for an unspecified reason. Davis unloads and Roach fires right back. Davis is firing with that KO power, and Roach counters with a big right. Roach not backing down. Roach connects with another hard right. Roach 86, Davis 85. 

Round 10

Action slows. But Davis scores with a left hook to the body and a combination. Davis lands a left and Roach connects with a harder right. Again, standing his ground and then moving forward. Davis lands two lefts and Roach fires back with the jab. But it’s Tank’s round. Roach 95, Davis 95.

Round 11

Roach out quick again behind his jab. They trade more big punches. Davis scores with a big left and digs into the body. Bu Roach storms back. Roach may be growing fatigued. And just like that, he lands another right. Roach lands a big right. Catches a body shot. They are, center of the ring, exchanging big shots. Davis warned for a low blow. Davis throwing heavy leather, and Roach up to the challenge. Davis 105, Roach 104.

Round 12

Round begins. Davis looks skyward with some confusion. He better stay focused on Roach. They open with a nice exchange. Davis tries to bait Roach. Davis darts in, takes a punch. Delivers a left. More nice exchanges here, and Roach getting the better of it. Davis lands a left, but Roach counters. Roach moving forward. Roach grabbing Davis by the ankles. Holding on. Roach takes a right as the bell rings, but it’s harmless. Davis 114, Roach 114. 

Gary Antuanne Russell def. Jose Valenzuela by unanimous decision

Coming off the first loss of his career, Russell turned in a sterling performance.

He threw almost 1,000 punches and dominated Valenzuela with relentless pressure while winning the WBA super lightweight title.

The staggering numbers from Compu Box: During the 12-round fight, Russell threw 957 punches and landed 252, including 175 power punches.

The swelling and bruising on Valenzuela’s face attested to the power behind the punches.

The judges scored it 119-109, 119-109, 120-108 as Russell, 28, improved to 18-1.

In his previous fight, Russell lost to Alberto Puello by split decision – his first defeat. On Saturday, Puello defended his WBC super lightweight world title

Valenzuela, 28, who landed fewer than half as much punches as Russell did Saturday, fell to 14-2. 

Round-by-round analysis:

Round 1: Gary Antuanne Russell sporting flashy gold shorts. Fires some rapid-fire punches with some matching gold-colored gloves. Jose Valenzuela answers with a big shot, but Russell with a powerful right. Russell 10, Valenzuela 9.

Round 2: Russell opens up firing quickly again. Valenzuela answers with his own jab. Scores with a right – right to the kisser. But Russell displays even more speed and connects to the body. Russell stalks. Russell lands a hard right late. Russell 20, Valenzuela 18.

Round 3: Russell throwing punches as if intending to win by pure output. He’s scoring too. Valenzuela has yet to find much rhythm. Lands another flurry. Valenzuela connects, but Russell fights right back with body shots. Russell cornered, and yet he connects with two shots. Russell 30, Valenzuela 27.

Round 4: Russell comes out stalking and, yep, more flurries of punches. Valenzuela connects with an overhand left, but Russell looks unfazed. Valenzuela shows more precision, but his output doesn’t match Russell’s. Russell 40, Valenzuela 36. 

Round 5: Russell pressures again, stalking Valenzuela and throwing those rapid-fire punches. Valenzuela finally answers with authority. Lands a pretty left cross. Russell goes back to his game plan and tags Valenzuela up against the ropes. But Valenzuela finishes strong. Russell 49, Valenzuela 46. 

Round 6: Russell shows no let-up. Leading with that right jab and keeping up with pressure. Valenzuela lands and Russell quickly answers. Trading some heavy punches. Russell 59, Valenzuela 55.

Round 7: They come out slugging. Valenzuela shows aggression, but nothing is slowing Russell. It’s target practice for Russell. Russell has Valenzuela on the ropes and he fights back. Only to have Russell close with a surge. Russell 69, Valenzuela 64.

Round 8: Valenzuela lands a hard left. Russell responds with a fierce left of his own. Valenzuela still looks puzzled by the pressure. Russell showing no fatigue. Eats a left and answers with three lefts. Another big exchange. Russell 79, Valenzuela 73.

Round 9: Russell stalking again, and connects with right hooks early. Giving Valenzuela little breathing room. Valenzuela connects and pays the price: The bruising on his face deepens. Valenzuela goes on the offense and eats big punches as a result. Russell loading up and Valenzuela looks to be in trouble. Valenzuela takes a beating. Russell 89, Valenzuela 82.

Round 10: Russell out with his signature energy. Valenzuela understandably tentative. Russell in control. Russell 99, Valenzuela 91.

Round 11: Ringside doctor inspects Valenzuela and lets the fight continue. Poor guy. Russell taking punches, and landing about three for every one he takes. Russell pounding away now. Russell wraps up Valenzuela briefly. The first sign of fatigue? They’re tangled up and Russell may need a breather after finishing the round with a flourish. Russell 109, Valenzuela 100.

Round 12: Ringside doctor inspects Valenzuela’s face again. The bout will go on. Russell firing fast and fierce. Valenzuela moving forward before covering up. He delivers a body shot but that won’t be nearly enough to hurt Russell. Valenzuela lands a big uppercut and Russell responds with a furious left. Russell lost his mouthpiece but not his aggression. Impressive exchange as the round ends, but there’s no doubt about the winner. Russell 119, Valenzuela 109.

Alberto Puello def. Sandor Martin by split decision

Puello didn’t seem to mind the scattered boos after the decision was announced following the 12-round super lightweight fight.

After all, Puello retained his WBC super lightweight title. He did it with a willingness to trade punches at the center of the ring and finished strong.

Martin had his moments in the championship rounds, but he also had blood dripping from his nose.

The judges scored it 115-113, 113-115, 116-112 in favor of Puello, the 30-year-old from the Dominican Republic who improved to 24-0.

Martin, the 31-year-old Spaniard, fell to 42-4.

Round-by-round analysis:

Round 1: Both fighters open by throwing crisp rights. Martin presses forward as things turn more tactical. Translation: limited action. They trade punches again and Puello gets the best of it. Martin stalks again and they mix it up without landing any significant blows. Puello 10, Martin 9.

Round 2: Martin stalks. Puello moves. Martin shows some hesitation. Martin scores with a left and Puello counters with a hard right. Martin lands a hard right and evades a shot late. Puello 19, Martin 19.

Round 3: Tangled up early. Martin throws a couple of hard jabs and left. Puello works Martin against the ropes and a nice exchange ensues. Martin 29, Puello 28.

Round 4: Tied up again early and Martin sneaks in a body shot. He looks quick as he throws a couple of rights. Martin lands two lefts as remains the aggressor. Martin targets the body, with success. Nice exchange. Both fighters willing to get hit for the chance to hit. Martin 39, Puello 37.

Round 5: Martin connects with a hard left and follows up with a combination and then digs into Puello’s body. Puello shows some aggression, but Martin answers blow for blow. Big swing and a miss by Puello. Martin shows good defense. Martin 49, Puello 46.

Round 6: Martin scores early with the left. Puello shows urgency too. Starts to stalk. Now they trade at the center of the ring, and Martin scores with body shots. Puello answers with a hard right, then jabs. But the round ends with Puello whiffing with a right and Martin landing. Martin 59, Puello 55.

Round 7: They both come out swinging. Sharp exchange at the center of the ring. Puello finally connects with authority. Scores with a double jab and draws blood, too. Martin 68, Puello 65.

Round 8: Puello opens with a big right hook, but Martin stands his ground. He’s quickly throwing punches rather than defending himself. Inside fighting commences and Puello lands a nasty left followed by a solid right. Puello looking more comfortable. Action picks up. Puello’s power more evident as Martin’s bleeding from the nose. Martin 77, Puello 75.

Round 9: Martin comes out slugging and lands several body shots. All inside boxing now as exchanges ensue. Martin looks most effective in close quarters. Trading big shots. Martin throwing punches with more urgency and authority. Big miss again by Puello. Martin 87, Puello 84.

Round 10: Bell rings and slugging ensues. No running. Just trading punches at the center of the ring. They’re tangled up and Puello uses the opportunity to land a hard right before Martin chases after him. Puello connects with another brutal body shot. Leather flying. Martin 97, Puello 93.

Round 11: Straight they go to the center of the ring and slug. Puello appears to hurt Martin with a wicked left. Puello showing more authority. Puello slickly dodges a couple of punches as the round ends. Martin 106, Puello 103.

Round 12: More of the same. Straight to the center of the ring they go. Martin circling and scores with the right. He allows Puello to stalk and responds with body shots. Puello showing no sense of urgency, much less desperation. Then suddenly he smothers Martin. Martin 116, Puello 112.

Yoenis Tellez def. Julian Williams by unanimous decision

It was experience vs. youth, and it was a mismatch.

Tellez, the 24-year-old Cuban, bloodied and battered Williams, the 34-year-old from Philadelphia, in a 12-round super welterweight fight.

Tellez improved to 10-0, won the interim WBA super welterweight title and clearly won Williams’ respect. The judges scored the fight 118-110, 117-111 and 119-109.

Williams, a former WBA and IBF super welterweight champion, landed dozens of jabs. But his face told the story: He was bleeding from under both eyes and the lip.

Tellez got hit, but not nearly as hard as he hit, punishing Williams with a hard right and assortment of punches.

Round-by-round analysis:

Round 1: Julian Williams out quick behind the jab. Yoenis Tellez’s pink gloves waiting for action. There flies a jab from Tellez. More lefts follow as Tellez becomes and aggressor. But Williams scores with two hard rights and a left hook. Williams 10, Tellez 9.

Round 2: Williams opens with a couple of jabs and Tellez responds with heavy fire. Tellez stalking as Williams fires the jab, then combinations. Williams landing with more power. Tellez finishes strong, but too late. Williams 20, Tellez 18.

Round 3: Tellez comes out the aggressor. Williams still firing jabs to keep his opponent at bay. Tellez breaks through with effective body punches and a big uppercut. Williams urgently moves forward out of the corner and Tellez retreats. Tellez delivers with solid combination and Williams backpedals. He’s bleeding over the left eye as the round ends. Williams 29, Tellez 28.

Round 4: Tellez stalks again. Williams showing some effectiveness with the jab as Tellez needs time to find an opening.  Action has slowed. Now Tellez is using his jab to close the distance, and Williams responds with expert use of his jab and a couple of hard body shots. Tellez counters with an uppercut. Williams 38, Tellez 38. 

Round 5: Williams lands combinations, but it’s not enough to stop Tellez. The young Cuban keeps marching forward and the swelling on Williams’ face is evident. Tellez continues to pepper Williams’ face with jabs while unloading heavier punches when the opportunity presents itself. Tellez 48, Williams 47.

Round 6: Tellez pushing forward behind that jab and uncorks an overhand right. Lands two body shots and Williams looks non-threatening. Williams stands his ground, but his face is taking a beating. Another strong finish for Tellez. Tellez 58, Williams 56.

Round 7: Williams looks wary. Or is it weary? Maybe both. Tellez is 10 years younger and looks fresh. Williams lands a combination, but Tellez counters with a nasty left hook. The action is turning increasingly lopsided in favor of the pink-gloved Tellez. Tellez 68, Williams 65.

Round 8: Williams opens fast with a couple of jabs. He lands a good right, but Tellez looks unconcerned. They trade solid body shots. Tellez stalks again and drives a left into Williams’ midsection. Catches up to Williams and lands two flurries of punches. Tellez 78, Williams 74.  

Round 9: Williams fires a couple of hard jabs. Tellez responds with heavier punches. Williams looks content to stick-and-move-and-get-stuck-with-punches. Williams bleeding profusely under both eyes. He absorbs some big body punches before countering with solid punches. They’re trading jabs. Williams can use an ice facial. Tellez 88, Williams 83. 

Round 10: Tellez comes out … looking for the KO? But he heats a couple of jabs before responding with three big rights. Williams connects with jabs and Tellez answers with jabs to the body. Tellez has Williams on the ropes and he scores repeatedly. The assault continues. Tellez 98, Williams 92. 

Round 11: With the round set to begin, the ringside physician inspects Williams’ bloody face. The fight ensues. Williams lands a flurry of shots, but none hurt Tellez, who hurts Williams with an uppercut and an assortment of shots. Tellez 108, Williams 101.

Round 12: Williams’ trainer imploring the boxer to land a liver shot to Tellez. Williams looks whupped. He’s firing shots with his left, but Tellez starts to punish Williams with body shots and an accompaniment of blows. Tellez clubs Williams a few more times before the bell for good measure. Tellez 118, Williams 110.

Johan Gonzalez def. Jarrett Hurd by split decision

Hurd, the former unified super welterweight champion, announced his retirement moments after losing to Gonzalez in the 10-round middleweight bout.

Hurd held the IBO and IBF super welterweight titles in 2019, but did not turn back the clock against Gonzalez. He found himself under attack from the outset and looked mostly lackluster until the final rounds.

The judges scored it 96-94, 94-96, 98-92 in favor of Gonzalez, the 33-year-old from Venezuela who improved to 36-3.

Hurd, 34, started out his career 23-0. But it ends after he went 2-4-1 in his final seven fights.

David Whitmire def. Angel Munoz by unanimous decision

Whitmire, also known as “The Body Snatcher,’’ lived up to his nickname during the six-round welterweight bout.

Whitmire punished Munoz with body shots and did some meaningful headhunting, too.

Munoz managed to stay on his feet and connected with hooks, but he lacked the power to hurt Whitmire.

All three judges scored it 60-54 for Whitmire, 19, who improved to 9-0. Munoz, 22, dropped to 7-1. 

Deric Davis def. Jamal Johnson by TKO

Davis knocked Johnson down twice in the first round of their super lightweight bout for a TKO victory.

The first knockdown came on a body shot. Johnson’s mouthpiece went flying as he went tumbling to the canvas. The second knockdown came on a left hook that dropped Johnson and prompted the referee to call the fight with 1:04 left the first round.

Davis, 22, improved to 6-0 while recording his fifth first-round stoppage.

Johnson, who entered the ring wearing a black mask, fell to 2-1.

Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach time 

Prelimary fights begin at 6 p.m. ET with the main event card beginning at 8 p.m. ET. The Davis-Roach fight has an approximate ring walk of 11 p.m. ET.

Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight card

Main Card

WBA lightweight title fight: Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach
Super lightweight: Jose Valenzuela vs. Gary Antuanne Russell
WBC super lightweight title fight: Alberto Puello vs. Sandor Martin
Super welterweight: Yoenis Tellez vs. Julian Williams

Prelims

Middleweight: Jarrett Hurd vs. Johan Gonzalez
Super featherweight: Geo Lopez vs. Grimardi Machuca
Super welterweight: Cristian Cangelosi vs. Jarrod Tennant
Super welterweight: Dwyke Flemmings Jr. vs. Florent Dervis
Welterweight: David Whitmire vs. Angel Munoz
Super bantamweight: Alexis De la Cerda Landin vs. Sharone Carter
Super middleweight: Nasheed H. Smith vs. Tariq Green
Lightweight: Deric Davis vs. Oscar Eduardo Gonzalez Jr.

Where is the Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight? 

This WBA lightweight championship fight will get underway on Saturday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Davis vs. Roach card start time

Main card: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (Amazon Prime PPV)
Prelims: 6 p.m. ET/ 3 p.m. ET (Prime Video)

How to watch Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight 

Coverage starts at 8 p.m. ET for the main event card and will be available on Amazon Prime PPV. Preliminary bouts starting at 6 p.m. ET available on Prime video.

Watch Davis vs. Roach with Amazon Prime PPV

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight odds

All available odds are for moneyline bets as of Friday, according to BetMGM. (Check for new odds before adding to file)

Main Card

WBA lightweight title fight: Gervonta Davis (-2000) vs. Lamont Roach (+750)
Super lightweight: Jose Valenzuela (-110) vs. Gary Antuanne Russell (-120)
WBC super lightweight title fight: Alberto Puello (-135) vs. Sandor Martin (+100)
Super welterweight: Yoenis Tellez (-1600) vs. Julian Williams (+650)

Prelims

Middleweight: Jarrett Hurd (-120) vs. Johan Gonzalez (-110)
Super featherweight: Geo Lopez vs. Grimardi Machuca
Super welterweight: Cristian Cangelosi vs. Jarrod Tennant
Super welterweight: Dwyke Flemmings Jr. vs. Florent Dervis
Welterweight: David Whitmire vs. Angel Munoz
Super bantamweight: Alexis De la Cerda Landin vs. Sharone Carter
Super middleweight: Nasheed H. Smith vs. Tariq Green
Lightweight: Deric Davis vs. Oscar Eduardo Gonzalez Jr.

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach predictions

CBS Sports: Pick Gervonta Davis

Brent Brookhouse writes: ‘While Roach is right that the amateur fights between the two do provide some direct knowledge of being in the ring with the champ, it also overlooks that, even as teenagers, Davis was the better fighter. That hasn’t changed as the years have ticked by. Davis is too smart, too disciplined and too powerful for Roach. The challenger may win an early round or two given Davis’ tendency to start slowly while he scouts out his opponent and figures out where the openings are to hurt them. But once Davis gets rolling, it will likely be a matter of time before he lands some big shots to end things.’

Yahoo Sports: Davis KO

Darshan Desai writes: ‘I expect Roach to have success in the early rounds at long range and occasionally catch Davis in exchanges due to his reach advantage, similar to the success Rolando Romero had against Davis. But Roach leaves himself open to counters, and I expect Davis to capitalize devastatingly in the second half of the fight.’

Boxing Scene: Jim Lampley picks Davis

David Greisman writes, according to Lampley: ‘Even if Tank did not possess his shocking punching power, he would be an elite lightweight on the basis of his crafty boxing, southpaw style advantage, clever footwork and visible killer instinct,” Lampley said. “But it is pure power that really sets him apart. He doesn’t just beat his opponents. He annihilates them in breathtaking, often scary fashion.’

Boxing News: Oscar De La Hoya picks Davis

The site reported that Oscar De La Hoya said: ‘I think Lamont Roach is a terrific fighter, he might be a little over his head with Gervonta Davis. Gervonta Davis is, I mean, to say the least. He’s a beast. He really is. He’s (Gervonta Davis) a tremendous fighter. He’s a dedicated fighter when it comes to training and fighting and making sure that he’s in optimal conditions when he steps inside that squared circle. It’s gonna be a tough night for Roach, but you can never count him out.”

Has Tank Davis ever been knocked down?

Officially, Davis never has been knocked down. But that’s a matter of debate. In 2020, during the first round of his fight against Leo Santa Cruz, Davis ended up on the canvas. The referee did not rule it a knockdown – but judge for yourself.

What is not in dispute is the Davis’ highlight-reel KO that ended the fight in the sixth round.

Who is Tank Davis’ girlfriend Vanessa Posso?

Vanessa Posso, Davis’ girlfriend, is the mother of two of the boxer’s three children. She is a model with her own jewelry line called “Rich Girlz.’

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach live stream

Coverage starts at 8 p.m. ET and will be available on Amazon Prime PPV with prelim fights available on Prime Video.

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

The NASCAR Cup Series hits the Lone Star State for the first road-course race of the 2025 season, when the Circuit of the Americas hosts the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix on Sunday.

It will be a big change of pace for drivers after opening the season with superspeedway events at Daytona and Atlanta. In addition to going from fast, pack-style racing on the high-banked ovals to adjusting to multiple left and right turns on the Austin, Texas, road course, drivers will also have to adapt to a shorter, reconfigured circuit.

The section from Turn 7 through the Turn 11 hairpin was eliminated, reducing the course from 3.41 miles (same as the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix) to 2.4 miles. But the shorter circuit means the number of laps has increased, going from 68 to 95.

Qualifying will also be extremely important – unlike Daytona and Atlanta – as the past two race winners at COTA – William Byron in 2024 and Tyler Reddick in 2023 – started on the front row.

Who will be the first road warrior of 2025? Here’s all the information you need to get ready for Sunday’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix:

SCHEDULE: How to watch NASCAR Cup Series races in 2025

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What time does the NASCAR Cup race at COTA start?

The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix starts at 3:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. local) at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

What TV channel is the NASCAR Cup race at COTA on?

Fox is broadcasting the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix and has a pre-race show beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. local).

Will there be a live stream of the NASCAR Cup race at COTA?

The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix can be live streamed on Max and the FoxSports app. Viewers can also stream the race on Fubo, which is offfering a free trial to new subscribers.

Watch NASCAR at Circuit of the Americas on Fubo (free trial)

How many laps is the NASCAR Cup race at COTA?

The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix is 95 laps around the 2.4-mile road course for a total of 228 miles. The race will feature three segments (laps per stage) — Stage 1: 20 laps; Stage 2: 25 laps; Stage 3: 50 laps.

Who won the most recent NASCAR Cup race at COTA?

What is the lineup for the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at COTA?

(Car number in parentheses)

(45) Tyler Reddick, Toyota
(23) Bubba Wallace, Toyota
(9) Chase Elliott, Chevrolet
(77) Carson Hocevar, Chevrolet
(99) Daniel Suarez, Chevrolet
(88) Shane Van Gisbergen, Chevrolet
(5) Kyle Larson, Chevrolet
(8) Kyle Busch, Chevrolet
(1) Ross Chastain, Chevrolet
(34) Todd Gilliland, Ford
(11) Denny Hamlin, Toyota
(16) AJ Allmendinger, Chevrolet
(54) Ty Gibbs, Toyota
(87) Connor Zilisch, Chevrolet
(24) William Byron, Chevrolet
(71) Michael McDowell, Chevrolet
(4) Noah Gragson, Ford
(19) Chase Briscoe, Toyota
(20) Christopher Bell, Toyota
(38) Zane Smith, Ford
(48) Alex Bowman, Chevrolet
(47) Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Chevrolet
(22) Joey Logano, Ford
(17) Chris Buescher, Ford
(12) Ryan Blaney, Ford
(6) Brad Keselowski, Ford
(3) Austin Dillon, Chevrolet
(60) Ryan Preece, Ford
(7) Justin Haley, Chevrolet
(41) Cole Custer, Ford
(35) Riley Herbst, Toyota
(43) Erik Jones, Toyota
(42) John Hunter Nemechek, Toyota
(10) Ty Dillon, Chevrolet
(21) Josh Berry, Ford
(2) Austin Cindric, Ford
(51) Cody Ware, Ford

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

Not every quarterback is participating in on-field drills at the NFL combine, but a few of those who did really stood out.

Mississippi gunslinger Jaxson Dart and Texas’ Quinn Ewers were among the top-ranked quarterbacks who did participate in Saturday’s on-field drills.

Top quarterback prospects Cam Ward (Miami FL) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) both opted out of throwing in Indianapolis; they’ll both wait for their respective pro days to work out. As a result, the other quarterback invitees had a chance to step up and boost their draft stock as top participants at the combine.

Here’s who performed the best out of the quarterbacks that chose to work out in Indianapolis:

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

2025 NFL combine: Top five quarterback rankings

Of the quarterbacks who threw in Indianapolis on Saturday, there were five who stood out in particular. Here’s how the top five quarterbacks at the NFL combine shake out, using only their performance Saturday to evaluate each of them:

1. Brady Cook, Missouri

Cook’s performance was an especially impressive feat considering he was largely throwing to receivers he hadn’t thrown to before. In addition, the Missouri product managed to stand out in a quarterback group that also included Mississippi’s Jaxson Dart and Texas’ Quinn Ewers.

What was also notable about Cook’s combine outing was his performance in the athletic testing. Not only did the Missouri product choose to participate in the vertical leap, broad jump and 40-yard dash, he was also the leader of all quarterbacks by a wide margin – albeit in an admittedly small sample size.

2. Jaxson Dart, Mississippi

Dart did just about everything he needed to in order to keep himself in the argument for QB2 in the 2025 NFL draft class. Like Cook, he looked accurate in his passing to receivers he has not worked with, showing off his touch and anticipation throughout his on-field drills.

All that kept Dart from the top spot on this list was some shakiness in his deep passes. While his accuracy looked good at longer ranges, the Mississippi product’s mechanics broke down a bit when trying to push the ball further downfield. If Dart can maintain a better lower half and base in throwing those deeper balls, his future as an NFL starting quarterback will become clearer.

3. Tyler Shough, Louisville

The 25-year-old from Louisville still did have some bad misses at points during Saturday’s drills, and the NFL Network commentary crew noted that Shough appeared to be ‘doing too much.’ There was at least one occasion in which he pretended to shake off a pass-rusher and unleashed a poor throw after a shoulder shimmy. In a drill that is intended to show off a quarterback’s skills without a defense to read or contend with, it’s hard to disagree with NFL Network’s analysis.

4. Quinn Ewers, Texas

The strongest parts of Ewers’ outing in on-field drills on Saturday were his solid mechanics and impressive accuracy. The Texas product was hitting receivers on all levels of the field with nice ball placement the first half of his throws, and he was really able to show off his nice footwork and lower-body mechanics with no pass rush to worry about.

Ewers wasn’t quite as strong as Dart was when he had to throw to his right side and on some of the deeper throws on ‘go’ routes. The 2024 second-team All-SEC quarterback missed some easy throws on comeback routes to his right side and didn’t show off much of the requisite anticipation on those routes. When it came time to throw deep, Ewers had some bad underthrows that took away from an otherwise solid performance.

5. Kyle McCord, Syracuse

McCord was able to stand out in a second group of throwers that was a bit more lackluster than the first. The former Ohio State quarterback was solid in his ball placement on throws to either sideline. In addition, he had some deep throws that were among the best of any of the quarterbacks that threw on Saturday, though he also had some underthrows that required adjustments from receivers.

Where McCord didn’t shine quite as brightly was in his anticipation. The Syracuse product frequently was late on his throws, waiting for his receivers to get out of their breaks before starting his throw. Though that could partly be attributed to his lack of work with those receivers, it was a notable part of his performance that was lacking compared to other quarterbacks – who also haven’t worked with all of the receivers – that threw Saturday.

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel will go. All. The. Way. Across the country.

A few weeks after his team granted Samuel permission to seek a trade, the 49ers agreed to terms to trade their former first-team All-Pro wideout to the Commanders according to several reports on Saturday. Washington will send San Francisco the Saints’ fifth-round pick: No. 148 overall.

In completing the trade, the 49ers free up some cap space after signing receivers Jauan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk to extensions last year. San Francisco also gets some extra space to work with as negotiations loom for an extension for quarterback Brock Purdy.

Washington brings in another pass-catching weapon for quarterback Jayden Daniels before he enters his second year. Samuel will start alongside Commanders star Terry McLaurin in the Kliff Kingsbury-designed offense.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Since the trade took place after the end of the NFL season, it won’t become official until the start of the new league year on March 12.

Deebo Samuel trade grades

San Franciso 49ers: B

It became clear during the 2024 season that Samuel’s role was diminishing in the 49ers’ offense. Even after Aiyuk’s injury midway through the season, it was Jennings, not Samuel, who led San Francisco receivers in targets, catches, yards and touchdowns.

Last year was the first season of both Jennings’ and Aiyuk’s new contract extensions, and this offseason is the first in which Purdy, their quarterback, can sign an extension of his own. San Francisco needed to free up some cap space with so much money committed – or soon to be committed – to the leaders of their passing offense. By trading Samuel, the team frees up over $15 million, which helps their grade in this trade at first glance.

However, it feels like San Francisco got less compensation for Samuel than they could have. This year’s pending free agent class is lacking young wide receivers that have an All-Pro-level ceiling. Tampa Bay’s Chris Godwin and Cincinnati’s Tee Higgins are by far the most talented pending free agent receivers younger than 30, and there’s a sizable drop-off after that.

For the 49ers to only get the No. 148 overall pick for Samuel – a receiver that still has a high ceiling despite a lack of recent production – feels underwhelming.

Washington Commanders: A

The Commanders got a weapon to pair with McLaurin, their star receiver, and Daniels, their young quarterback, in their passing offense. And all it cost them was a fifth-round pick.

For context, the Eagles traded the Commanders a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks for wide receiver Jahan Dotson before the 2024 season

It immediately fills one of the Commanders’ biggest needs to address this offseason with receivers Olamide Zaccheaus and Noah Brown set to hit free agency and no true No. 2 pass-catcher to play with McLaurin. In filling that need via trade, Washington general manager Adam Peters now has the ability to tackle other roster needs (read: cornerback, linebacker) in free agency and April’s NFL draft.

Washington will take a cap hit of around $15 million by bringing in Samuel, but that’s not a huge problem for the team that ranks third in cap space this offseason, according to OverTheCap.com.

LOS ANGELES — The Big Ten officially belongs to Southern California. 

In the battle of Los Angeles between No. 2 UCLA and No. 3 USC, the Trojans came out hot and never looked back en route to winning the conference regular-season crown, sweeping the rival Bruins with an 80-67 victory.

USC star JuJu Watkins opened up the night with a 3-point shot and USC started the game on a 9-0 run. They led wire-to-wire. UCLA did close the deficit on a few occasions, getting it to a four-point game in the third quarter. But the USC offense didn’t freeze. Bucket after bucket went in and it stretched the lead to as much as 20 points in the final quarter.

It’s the fourth consecutive win over UCLA for the Trojans.

Watkins was again the star against UCLA with a 30-point outing. She added five assists, three rebounds and three blocks. 

The Trojans will head into the Big Ten tournament next week as the No. 1 seed and the Bruins will be the No. 2 seed. There’s a great chance the two sides meet again in the final in Indianapolis. 

USC vs. UCLA highlights

USC vs. UCLA score

Trojans less than two minutes away from win

It’s all but over in Pauley Pavilion as USC leads by 19 points with 1:58 to go in the contest. A USC chant broke out from the Trojan fans in attendance.

USC closing in on win

The Trojans can smell the Big Ten crown as the offense hasn’t let up in the fourth quarter. They lead 76-59 with just under five minutes to go. Two consecutive 3-point shots from Avery Howell were big shots that took much of the life out of Pauley Pavilion. USC had the lead at 20 points just a few minutes ago.

End of third quarter: USC 64, UCLA 51

The Big Ten regular-season championship is 10 minutes away from being decided. The Trojans are closing in on the title with a 13-point lead after three quarters.

UCLA came out of halftime and made it a close battle, closing the deficit to four points with three minutes left in the frame. That would be the last time the Bruins would score, with USC going on a 9-0 run to push the lead back to 13 points. Despite some uncharacteristic missed free throws, JuJu Watkins remains the leading scorer with 28 points.

USC pushes lead after UCLA run

The Bruins were able to cut the deficit to four points, but a 7-0 Trojan run has USC up by double-digits again in the final minute of the third quarter.

UCLA hanging around

The Bruins are showing some fight out of halftime. The offense has found some rhythm to make it a single-digit deficit halfway through the third quarter.

Kiki Rice and Londynn Jones have each scored five points in the quarter. But on the other side, Kiki Iriafen has also added five points to keep the distance away from the Bruins.

Halftime: USC 46, UCLA 32

It’s another edition of the JuJu Watkins Show as she continues to torch her crosstown rival. The Trojans lead 46-32 at the break. Watkins made the first bucket of the night and she’s been scoring in flurries since. She has 23 points and she’s 4-of-7 from 3-point land.

Meanwhile, turnovers and defensive lapses are hurting UCLA. It has turned it over 11 times and its led to 17 points for the opponent. The other star, Lauren Betts, has been quiet so far. The Trojans have a near-perfect game plan for her in the post. She has nine rebounds, a game-high, but only four points. The Bruins haven’t led.

USC shot 18-for-38 (47.4%) and UCLA was 11-for-30 (36.7%) from the field in the first half.

Trojans extend lead

USC continues to hit shots and capitalize on UCLA mistakes, leading by 14 points with less than three minutes to go in the half. The Bruins have turned it over six times in the quarter and nine times overall, leading to 14 Trojan points.

USC gets hot again

Something about great starts to quarters for the Trojans, who have a double-digit lead again at 34-24 with five-and-a-half minutes to go in the second frame. USC has made four of its first seven attempts in the quarter. Guard Kennedy Smith is getting it going on offense. UCLA has turned it over three times in the quarter.

End of first quarter: USC 23, UCLA 20

It was a USC blitz to start the contest but the Bruins have clawed back and Pauley Pavilion is rocking. The Trojans lead by three at the end of the first 10 minutes.

Just like in the first matchup, JuJu Watkins started off hot, making five of her first six shot attempts and scoring 13 of the first 21 points for the Trojans. Defenders weren’t able to do much early on and it looked like it was going to be a long night for UCLA as USC led by as much as 11 points.

UCLA eventually started making shots and got itself back in the game. It also disrupted USC’s momentum and it drew fouls, primarily on Lauren Betts. USC starters Kiki Iriafen and Kennedy Smith had two fouls each in the first eight minutes and will now be in trouble for at least the remainder of the first half. The Bruins closed the quarter on an 8-2 run to cut the deficit.

USC starts with massive run

The Trojans have continued their momentum from the first meeting, on fire with a 13-2 lead in the first four-and-a-half minutes. JuJu Watkins got the first bucket of the night on a 3-point shot, signaling another big night from the star, and USC opened on a 9-0 run. Talia von Oelhoffen then got a 3-point shot and the foul to give her team an early double-digit lead. The Bruins missed their first eight shot attempts.

When is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game?

The game is scheduled for Saturday, March 1 at 9 p.m. ET.

How to watch UCLA vs. USC

Date: Saturday, March 1
Time: 9 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Streaming options: Fox Sports Go app | Fubo (free trial)

Fox will nationally broadcast Saturday’s game between UCLA and USC. It can be streamed on the Fox Sports Go app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries Fox and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

What channel is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game on?

USC and UCLA’s matchup on Thursday will be broadcasted on Fox.

UCLA starting lineup

Kiki Rice, G
Londynn Jones, G
Gabriela Jaquez, F
Angela Dugalic, F
Lauren Betts, C

USC starting lineup

Kennedy Smith, G
JuJu Watkins, G
Talia von Oelhoffen, G
Rayah Marshall, F
Kiki Iriafen, F

UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball odds

Odds according to BetMGM.

Spread: UCLA (-4.5)
Moneyline: UCLA (-250); USC (+200)
Over/under: 140.5

UCLA resume

Record: 27-1
NET ranking: No. 5
Quad 1 record: 10-1
Quality wins: No. 6 South Carolina, No. 18 Baylor, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 3 USC

USC resume

Record: 25-2
NET ranking: No. 6
Quad 1 record: 9-2
Quality wins: Mississippi, No. 5 Connecticut, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 2 UCLA, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 4 Notre Dame, Iowa

UCLA last five results

Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: UCLA 75, Michigan State 69
Thursday, Feb. 20: UCLA 70, Illinois 55
Sunday, Feb. 23: UCLA 67, Iowa 65
Wednesday, Feb. 26: UCLA 91, Wisconsin 61

USC last five results

Saturday, Feb. 8: USC 84, Ohio State 63
Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: USC 69, Washington 64
Wednesday, Feb. 19: USC 83, Michigan State 75
Sunday, Feb. 23: USC 76, Illinois 66

Keys to UCLA vs. USC

There’s more than just city bragging rights at stake when UCLA and Southern California meet again on Saturday.

The No. 2 Bruins and No. 3 Trojans had an epic first clash on Feb. 13, with JuJu Watkins delivering a signature performance as USC beat its rival in front of its home fans. The second game will take place at UCLA. Just like the first matchup at the Galen Center, an electric environment is expected; it will be a sell-out crowd at Pauley Pavilion.

UCLA and USC have had little trouble in their first season in the Big Ten. Saturday’s winner can cap off an incredible regular season with a championship and generate momentum as March Madness approaches. Each team has national championship aspirations and is in prime position to get a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament based on Thursday’s selection committee rankings.

‘It’s for all the marbles here,’ said USC forward Rayah Marshall.

– Read the keys and things to watch for the matchup here.

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

LOS ANGELES — The Big Ten officially belongs to Southern California. 

In the battle of Los Angeles between No. 2 UCLA and No. 3 USC, the Trojans came out hot and never looked back en route to winning the conference regular-season crown, sweeping the rival Bruins with an 80-67 victory.

USC star JuJu Watkins opened up the night with a 3-point shot and USC started the game on a 9-0 run. They led wire-to-wire. UCLA did close the deficit on a few occasions, getting it to a four-point game in the third quarter. But the USC offense didn’t freeze. Bucket after bucket went in and it stretched the lead to as much as 20 points in the final quarter.

It’s the fourth consecutive win over UCLA for the Trojans.

Watkins was again the star against UCLA with a 30-point outing. She added five assists, three rebounds and three blocks. 

The Trojans will head into the Big Ten tournament next week as the No. 1 seed and the Bruins will be the No. 2 seed. There’s a great chance the two sides meet again in the final in Indianapolis. 

UCLA vs. USC score

Trojans less than two minutes away from win

It’s all but over in Pauley Pavilion as USC leads by 19 points with 1:58 to go in the contest. A USC chant broke out from the Trojan fans in attendance.

USC closing in on win

The Trojans can smell the Big Ten crown as the offense hasn’t let up in the fourth quarter. They lead 76-59 with just under five minutes to go. Two consecutive 3-point shots from Avery Howell were big shots that took much of the life out of Pauley Pavilion. USC had the lead at 20 points just a few minutes ago.

End of third quarter: USC 64, UCLA 51

The Big Ten regular-season championship is 10 minutes away from being decided. The Trojans are closing in on the title with a 13-point lead after three quarters.

UCLA came out of halftime and made it a close battle, closing the deficit to four points with three minutes left in the frame. That would be the last time the Bruins would score, with USC going on a 9-0 run to push the lead back to 13 points. Despite some uncharacteristic missed free throws, JuJu Watkins remains the leading scorer with 28 points.

USC pushes lead after UCLA run

The Bruins were able to cut the deficit to four points, but a 7-0 Trojan run has USC up by double-digits again in the final minute of the third quarter.

UCLA hanging around

The Bruins are showing some fight out of halftime. The offense has found some rhythm to make it a single-digit deficit halfway through the third quarter.

Kiki Rice and Londynn Jones have each scored five points in the quarter. But on the other side, Kiki Iriafen has also added five points to keep the distance away from the Bruins.

Halftime: USC 46, UCLA 32

It’s another edition of the JuJu Watkins Show as she continues to torch her crosstown rival. The Trojans lead 46-32 at the break. Watkins made the first bucket of the night and she’s been scoring in flurries since. She has 23 points and she’s 4-of-7 from 3-point land.

Meanwhile, turnovers and defensive lapses are hurting UCLA. It has turned it over 11 times and its led to 17 points for the opponent. The other star, Lauren Betts, has been quiet so far. The Trojans have a near-perfect game plan for her in the post. She has nine rebounds, a game-high, but only four points. The Bruins haven’t led.

USC shot 18-for-38 (47.4%) and UCLA was 11-for-30 (36.7%) from the field in the first half.

Trojans extend lead

USC continues to hit shots and capitalize on UCLA mistakes, leading by 14 points with less than three minutes to go in the half. The Bruins have turned it over six times in the quarter and nine times overall, leading to 14 Trojan points.

USC gets hot again

Something about great starts to quarters for the Trojans, who have a double-digit lead again at 34-24 with five-and-a-half minutes to go in the second frame. USC has made four of its first seven attempts in the quarter. Guard Kennedy Smith is getting it going on offense. UCLA has turned it over three times in the quarter.

End of first quarter: USC 23, UCLA 20

It was a USC blitz to start the contest but the Bruins have clawed back and Pauley Pavilion is rocking. The Trojans lead by three at the end of the first 10 minutes.

Just like in the first matchup, JuJu Watkins started off hot, making five of her first six shot attempts and scoring 13 of the first 21 points for the Trojans. Defenders weren’t able to do much early on and it looked like it was going to be a long night for UCLA as USC led by as much as 11 points.

UCLA eventually started making shots and got itself back in the game. It also disrupted USC’s momentum and it drew fouls, primarily on Lauren Betts. USC starters Kiki Iriafen and Kennedy Smith had two fouls each in the first eight minutes and will now be in trouble for at least the remainder of the first half. The Bruins closed the quarter on an 8-2 run to cut the deficit.

USC starts with massive run

The Trojans have continued their momentum from the first meeting, on fire with a 13-2 lead in the first four-and-a-half minutes. JuJu Watkins got the first bucket of the night on a 3-point shot, signaling another big night from the star, and USC opened on a 9-0 run. Talia von Oelhoffen then got a 3-point shot and the foul to give her team an early double-digit lead. The Bruins missed their first eight shot attempts.

When is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game?

The game is scheduled for Saturday, March 1 at 9 p.m. ET.

How to watch UCLA vs. USC

Date: Saturday, March 1
Time: 9 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Streaming options: Fox Sports Go app | Fubo (free trial)

Fox will nationally broadcast Saturday’s game between UCLA and USC. It can be streamed on the Fox Sports Go app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries Fox and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

What channel is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game on?

USC and UCLA’s matchup on Thursday will be broadcasted on Fox.

UCLA starting lineup

Kiki Rice, G
Londynn Jones, G
Gabriela Jaquez, F
Angela Dugalic, F
Lauren Betts, C

USC starting lineup

Kennedy Smith, G
JuJu Watkins, G
Talia von Oelhoffen, G
Rayah Marshall, F
Kiki Iriafen, F

UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball odds

Odds according to BetMGM.

Spread: UCLA (-4.5)
Moneyline: UCLA (-250); USC (+200)
Over/under: 140.5

UCLA resume

Record: 27-1
NET ranking: No. 5
Quad 1 record: 10-1
Quality wins: No. 6 South Carolina, No. 18 Baylor, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 3 USC

USC resume

Record: 25-2
NET ranking: No. 6
Quad 1 record: 9-2
Quality wins: Mississippi, No. 5 Connecticut, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 2 UCLA, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 4 Notre Dame, Iowa

UCLA last five results

Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: UCLA 75, Michigan State 69
Thursday, Feb. 20: UCLA 70, Illinois 55
Sunday, Feb. 23: UCLA 67, Iowa 65
Wednesday, Feb. 26: UCLA 91, Wisconsin 61

USC last five results

Saturday, Feb. 8: USC 84, Ohio State 63
Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: USC 69, Washington 64
Wednesday, Feb. 19: USC 83, Michigan State 75
Sunday, Feb. 23: USC 76, Illinois 66

Keys to UCLA vs. USC

There’s more than just city bragging rights at stake when UCLA and Southern California meet again on Saturday.

The No. 2 Bruins and No. 3 Trojans had an epic first clash on Feb. 13, with JuJu Watkins delivering a signature performance as USC beat its rival in front of its home fans. The second game will take place at UCLA. Just like the first matchup at the Galen Center, an electric environment is expected; it will be a sell-out crowd at Pauley Pavilion.

UCLA and USC have had little trouble in their first season in the Big Ten. Saturday’s winner can cap off an incredible regular season with a championship and generate momentum as March Madness approaches. Each team has national championship aspirations and is in prime position to get a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament based on Thursday’s selection committee rankings.

‘It’s for all the marbles here,’ said USC forward Rayah Marshall.

– Read the keys and things to watch for the matchup here.

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.