The fate of the Bruins fell into the hands of the Trojans two weeks ago.

But the challenges the former faced have since only strengthened their resolve.

With newfound momentum, the Bruins have continued to collectively grow.

“We’ve also built so much trust with each other – where we know we can let it rip,” said sophomore libero Kat Lutz. “Letting that shine through – especially at home – is going to be super awesome.”

The stage is set for Thursday evening – a rematch between UCLA women’s volleyball (10-9, 4-6 Big Ten) and crosstown rival USC (14-6, 6-4) in the Bruins’ final home game of October. After suffering a defeat in their last battle, the match serves as an opportunity for the Bruins to earn revenge.

Thursday’s match marks the 135th edition between the two foes, with the Trojans winning five of the last six matchups, including its recent victory Oct. 13 against the Bruins at the Galen Center.

“We have been working our butts off to make the little plays, focusing more on the execution in those moments,” said junior outside hitter Cheridyn Leverette. “That is going to come to light, and I can’t wait to be able to do it for our home crowd.”

While the Trojans’ 14-6 record – and 6-4 conference record – towers over the Bruins’, USC is coming off back-to-back losses at home against Michigan State and Penn State.

But despite their recent defeats, the Trojans are not to be underestimated.

Their offense is led by outside hitter Ally Batenhorst – the Nebraska transfer tallies the seventh-most kills in the conference with 294. On the defensive end, middle blocker Tyrah Ariail has totaled 74 blocks, contributing to the team’s average of 2.97 blocks per set – in stark comparison to the Bruins’ 2.27.

However, in other statistical categories, the Bruins lead in kills per set, assists per set and digs per set.

Leverette has reached an 18-match streak of double-digit kills, tallying 14 in the recent win against the Spartans. Graduate middle blocker Anna Dodson also reached double-digit kills with 12 Saturday.

Four UCLA matches this season were met with close-call losses in five sets against the top guns in the Big Ten – then-No. 16 USC, then-No. 12 Minnesota, then-No. 10 Purdue and most recently, No. 3 Penn State.

“You get to a point where you’re tired of losing,” said coach Alfee Reft. “You’re tired of talking about the lessons, and it’s time to execute.”

The rivals will clash under the lights of Pauley Pavilion on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. – a night that may just treat the Bruins with another taste of victory or trick the Bruins down a further abyss to their crosstown nemesis.