University Southern California Trojans
Photo by: John McGillen/USC Athletics
USC's Jazzy Davidson Named to 2026 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Late-Season Team
February 26, 2026 | Women's Basketball
Davidson the only rookie recognized among the nation’s elite defenders
LOS ANGELES — USC freshman guard Jazzy Davidson has been named to the 2026 Naismith Women's College Defensive Player of the Year Presented by MOLECULE Late-Season Team, recognizing her as one of the top defenders in the nation. As the only freshman honored on the defensive late-season team, Davidson continues to separate herself as one of the premier young talents in women's college basketball and one of its most disruptive defenders.
A dynamic two-way force for the Trojans, Davidson has made an immediate impact on the defensive end in her debut season. Through 28 games, she has totaled 57 steals (averaging 2.0 per game) and 60 blocks (averaging 2.1 per game) while averaging 34.7 minutes per contest. Her 60 blocks (fourth all-time) and 57 steals (fourth all-time) both rank amongst USC's top-five all-time freshman records.
Davidson's ability to disrupt passing lanes and protect the rim has been central to USC's success this season. She averages 2.3 steals per 40 minutes and 2.5 blocks per 40 minutes, consistently altering shots and creating transition opportunities for the Trojans. Her 5.8 block percentage and 3.3 steal percentage highlight her efficiency and defensive presence on court.
In addition to her defensive prowess, Davidson also leads USC in points (18.1), rebounds (6.0) and assists (4.4).
The Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Late-Season Team spot is the latest in a growing list of national accolades for Davidson this season. In addition to this recognition, she has earned distinction on multiple Naismith Award watch lists, further cementing her status as one of the most impactful freshmen in the country. The 2026 Naismith Women's College Defensive Player of the Year will be announced later this spring.
Davidson and the Trojans conclude the regular season on Sunday, March 1 as USC hosts No. 2 UCLA at the Galen Center at 3 p.m. PT.
A dynamic two-way force for the Trojans, Davidson has made an immediate impact on the defensive end in her debut season. Through 28 games, she has totaled 57 steals (averaging 2.0 per game) and 60 blocks (averaging 2.1 per game) while averaging 34.7 minutes per contest. Her 60 blocks (fourth all-time) and 57 steals (fourth all-time) both rank amongst USC's top-five all-time freshman records.
Davidson's ability to disrupt passing lanes and protect the rim has been central to USC's success this season. She averages 2.3 steals per 40 minutes and 2.5 blocks per 40 minutes, consistently altering shots and creating transition opportunities for the Trojans. Her 5.8 block percentage and 3.3 steal percentage highlight her efficiency and defensive presence on court.
In addition to her defensive prowess, Davidson also leads USC in points (18.1), rebounds (6.0) and assists (4.4).
The Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Late-Season Team spot is the latest in a growing list of national accolades for Davidson this season. In addition to this recognition, she has earned distinction on multiple Naismith Award watch lists, further cementing her status as one of the most impactful freshmen in the country. The 2026 Naismith Women's College Defensive Player of the Year will be announced later this spring.
Davidson and the Trojans conclude the regular season on Sunday, March 1 as USC hosts No. 2 UCLA at the Galen Center at 3 p.m. PT.
Players Mentioned
G
/ Women's BasketballUSC Women’s Basketball vs Wisconsin Highlights | Trojans win 66-59
Thursday, February 19
USC Women's Basketball vs Wisconsin Postgame Press Conference (2/19/26)
Thursday, February 19
USC Women's Basketball vs. Illinois Postgame Press Conference (2/08/26)
Sunday, February 08
USC Women’s Basketball vs Illinois Highlights | Trojans win 70-62
Sunday, February 08
