WOMEN’S ROUNDUP : USC Builds Big Lead, Wins, 66-61

USC built an 18-point lead in the second half but had to hold on for a 66-61 victory over Central Michigan Sunday in Rose Arena at Mt. Pleasant, Mich.

The Trojans (6-3) had a 39-27 halftime lead and increased it to 42-34 with 13:47 left in the game.

The Chippewas (6-3) went on an 11-2 run that closed the gap to 60-54 with four minutes remaining.

USC maintained its lead down the stretch, but Central Michigan’s Carrie Isenhart connected on a three-pointer with eight seconds left to make it 64-61. Joni Easterly and Juleah Woods made free throws in the final seconds for the Trojans.

The Trojans assisted Central Michigan’s comeback efforts by missing eight of 14 free throws in the second half.

Lisa Leslie scored 20 points for the Trojans, including three in the final minute, and added eight rebounds. Easterly had 15 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists.

Carla Stark scored 15 points for Central Michigan.

UCLA 78, San Diego 70--Natalie Williams had 25 points and 18 rebounds as the Bruins downed the Toreros at San Diego.

DeDe Mossman added 17 points for UCLA (7-3), which built a 40-29 halftime lead.

Jill Shaver had 17 points and eight rebounds while Chris Enger scored 16 points and Angie Straub added 13 for San Diego (3-7).