Elmore Carries Trojans

Tiffany Elmore had a big game for USC, and for the second consecutive game it was the difference.

The senior guard had her second consecutive 20-point effort--of which 16 came in the second half--and lifted USC past Oregon State, 69-65, in a Pacific 10 Conference opener before 452 at the Sports Arena on Thursday.

Elmore made nine of 13 shots, none bigger than the layup that put USC ahead, 68-63, with 1:01 left.

The victory improved the Trojans to 5-5 and 1-0 in the conference. The Beavers slipped to 4-6, 0-1.

Neither team had control of the game, mainly because of a combined 50 turnovers (26 by USC). Tied at 34 at halftime, the Trojans took the lead for good, 60-59, on a three-point basket by Jessica Cheeks with 4:18 left.

Beaver freshman (and former Inglewood Morningside High player) Juleen Smith, who had 15 points in her previous nine games combined, had a career-high 22 points.

“Oregon State always plays really well against us,” USC Coach Chris Gobrecht said. “I can’t remember since I got here [in 1997] when playing them wasn’t a war. We were fortunate to escape with a win.”