Los Angeles, CA- From a Trojan fan’s perspective, this was a game that showed USC’s identity and its maturity.
USC controlled the matchup from start to finish, dictating the tempo and playing through its strengths. The Trojans led for nearly the entire night, leaning on physical interior play and balanced scoring to keep Rutgers at arm’s length. Still, Big Ten games rarely stay comfortable.
Rutgers made its late surge behind guard Tariq Francis, who finished with a game-high 26 points and five assists. His shot-making and pressure cut USC’s lead down to one possession in the final moments, setting up a tense finish.
But USC made the defensive play of the game.
With seconds left and Francis handling the ball near midcourt, Chad Baker-Mazara squared him up, jammed him with his dribble, and cleanly poked the ball away, a strong, disciplined defensive stand that sealed the 78–75 win and sent the Trojans celebrating.
USC’s edge all night came inside. Ezra Ausar was dominant, scoring 21 points with seven rebounds while repeatedly sealing defenders and finishing strong above the rim. Jacob Cofie delivered a double-double (15 points, 10 rebounds), and Baker-Mazara added 17 points and five rebounds, giving USC consistent production across the front line.
Freshman Alijah Arenas continues to grow into the college game and provided a spark, scoring 9 points while knocking down 2 of 4 from three, encouraging signs of confidence and shot selection.
After the game, Eric Musselman praised Ausar’s work in the paint and highlighted the discipline of Kam Woods, who followed a season-high scoring night by taking just three shots and fully buying into the system. Musselman did acknowledge USC’s struggles against the full-court press late, an area the Trojans know must improve.
Still, this was a win built on control, toughness, and one final defensive stop, exactly the kind Trojan fans appreciate.
