LOS ANGELES -- USC starting guard Kennedy Smith will be sidelined indefinitely after having a surgical procedure.
Her status was announced shortly before the third-ranked Trojans hosted No. 6 Notre Dame on Saturday. Freshman Kayleigh Heckel was making her first start of the season in Smith's place.
USC said Smith is expected to return to competition this season.
The freshman from nearby Chino was averaging 10.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists in four games. She last played Nov. 15 against Santa Clara, recording nine points and five steals in the victory.