TAMPA, Fla., November 3, 2025 – The University of South Florida women's basketball team opened its season with an emphatic 81-56 win over FIU on Monday night at the Yuengling Center, giving interim head coach Michele Woods-Baxter her first career victory at the helm.
The win marked Woods-Baxter's debut as head coach for the Bulls, making her just the third coach in program history to win in her head coaching debut, joining Trudi Lacey (1988) and Joanne Rogers (1976).
Prior to tip-off, the Bulls were recognized for last season's American Conference championship with a special banner reveal that now hangs in the Yuengling Center rafters.
Forward L'or Mputu powered South Florida on both ends of the floor, posting her seventh career double-double with a career-high 20 points and 12 rebounds, leading all scorers. Mputu also added a steal while setting new career highs in both free throws made (10) and attempts (11). Her previous career-high of 17 points came twice—against Duke (Dec. 21, 2024) and Charlotte (Jan. 1, 2025).
Guard Edyn Battle filled the stat sheet with 17 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Katie Davidson contributed 14 points and five rebounds. Forward Fatou Diakite rounded out the Bulls' double-digit scorers with 10 points and five rebounds, going a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.
USF dominated from start to finish, never allowing FIU to take a lead. The Bulls' best scoring run came in the first quarter (6:32) with a 13-0 surge, and they built their largest lead of 28 points late in the third quarter (2:41).
South Florida's depth was on full display as the Bulls' bench contributed 24 points, compared to zero from FIU's reserves. The Bulls also controlled the paint, outscoring the Panthers 36-18, and held a 22-4 advantage in second-chance points.
The victory marked USF's ninth consecutive win over FIU, dating back to 2004.
Next, the Bulls return to action on Thursday, Nov. 7, when they host LIU at the Yuengling Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
2025-26 SEASON TICKETS
Bulls fans, it's time to lock in your seats for another exciting season of USF Basketball! The 2025-26 season promises competitive matchups and unforgettable moments at the Yuengling Center. Buy your season tickets here.
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ABOUT SOUTH FLORIDA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
South Florida women's basketball has built a storied tradition over the past 25 seasons, highlighted by 19 postseason tournament appearances and 10 NCAA Tournament berths. The program has achieved 12 20-win seasons, two WNIT Final Four appearances, and captured the 2008-09 WNIT championship.
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