In a crucial Big Ten Conference matchup, former Pac-12 rivals Southern California and Oregon are preparing to clash in Los Angeles. Both teams are experiencing significant challenges this season, making this upcoming game a pivotal moment for each to reverse their recent fortunes and reclaim some momentum in their respective campaigns.
The USC Trojans (18-8, 7-8 Big Ten) enter this contest amidst a difficult period, having suffered two consecutive losses, which have significantly impacted their aspirations for the NCAA Tournament. Their most recent defeat was a lopsided 101-65 home loss to the 10th-ranked Illinois, highlighting the team's struggles. Compounding their difficulties, USC has been battling a series of injuries to key players throughout the season. Leading scorer Chad Baker-Mazara was sidelined for the Illinois game due to a minor knee strain, though coach Eric Musselman indicated his status was day-to-day. Baker-Mazara had previously dealt with a neck injury in January, which saw his scoring average dip from over 20 points per game to 18.3.
Adding to USC's injury woes, top prospect Alijah Arenas missed the first two months of the season with a knee injury. Since his debut on January 21, Arenas has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 26.0 points over a recent three-game stretch. However, he struggled in the game against Illinois, managing only eight points on 2-of-7 shooting and committing three turnovers. Coach Musselman expressed his frustration with the team's home performance, stating, "We haven't played good basketball at home, and we've got to figure out how (to win home games)."
Meanwhile, the Oregon Ducks (9-17, 2-13) are also facing their own set of challenges, particularly on the road, where they hold a dismal 1-10 record in away and neutral-site games. Their recent 61-44 home loss to Minnesota further exacerbated their struggles, placing them in a precarious position regarding NCAA Tournament qualification. With only five regular-season games remaining, the Ducks are currently projected to participate in a play-in game at the Big Ten tournament, a consequence of being among the league's bottom four teams.
Oregon's coach, Dana Altman, who has maintained a winning record since 1995-96, emphasized the need for a stronger performance from his team. "We've got to bounce back and have a lot more energy," Altman remarked, adding, "We're going to have to play a whole lot harder against USC." The Trojans previously defeated the Ducks 82-77 in Eugene, Oregon, on December 2, a game in which Baker-Mazara scored 25 points. Despite Kwame Evans Jr.'s strong performance with 23 points and nine rebounds in that loss, the Ducks' big man has struggled recently, scoring no more than six points in three of his last four outings.
Both teams are at a critical juncture in their seasons, with the upcoming game offering a chance to regroup and improve their standing in the Big Ten Conference. The outcome could significantly influence their trajectories as they head into the final stretch of the regular season and prepare for the conference tournament.