USC Trojans HC makes her feelings known on Kiyomi McMiller's absence in Rutgers game

USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb talked about the absence of Rutgers guard Kiyomi McMiller in Sunday's 92-42 win at Jersey Mike’s Arena.

Despite hosting the game, the Scarlet Knights struggled without their standout freshman, who preempted the announcement of her absence with an Instagram post hours before the game.

When asked about adjustments made in McMiller’s absence, Gottlieb explained the Trojans’ approach.

"We prepared to have her," Gottlieb said (03:05). "Obviously, she's a big part of what they do. But I told the team when we found out she's going to be out that sometimes other people take that opportunity to step up, and we couldn't be any less locked on our game plan.

"I thought they would go to (Destiny) Adams even more than they normally would. So we really tried to key in on her (and we) did a good job on that. But really, it was our team defense regardless."

Without McMiller, USC effectively executed its plan to limit senior guard Destiny Adams, who became Rutgers’ primary option. Adams was held to just 3 of 15 shooting, with six turnovers and four fouls. Despite her struggles, she still recorded her sixth double-double of the season with 10 points, 10 rebounds and five steals.

McMiller’s absence was felt as Rutgers’ offense struggled. The Scarlet Knights missed their first eight shots before Adams broke the drought, cutting the deficit to 10-3. They only managed 14 points in the first half but improved in the second, doubling their scoring output.

The No. 4-ranked Trojans will be back in action on Wednesday when they face No. 8-ranked Maryland.

Kiyomi McMiller’s absence in USC game explained

The Rutgers vs. USC game was billed as a marquee matchup featuring two of the nation’s top guards, McMiller and JuJu Watkins. While the showdown didn’t materialize, Watkins addressed the situation after the game, expressing mixed feelings.

"She's a good player," Watkins said. "I'm always excited to play against good players, so I guess I was a little disappointed that she wasn't on the floor. I think the main goal is always to win with or without players."

Hours before the game, McMiller announced on Instagram that she would not play due to Rutgers coach Coquese Washington's decision. Washington did not provide specific details and said that it would be handled internally.

"For me, coaching is not just about what happens on the court on game day," Washington said. "It's about how we impact these young women that are in our program in all aspects—from their character to their growth into womanhood and their decision-making.

"I see my role as a coach as being more than X's and O's and wins and losses, but how am I impacting young women in my care? That's always going to be first and foremost."

With an 8-7 record and a 0-4 start in Big Ten Conference play, Rutgers must quickly regain its footing — with or without its star freshman — to prevent the season from slipping further out of reach.