IU Basketball Wraps Up Road Trip Against USC
Indiana University basketball is set to conclude its latest road trip with a matchup against the University of Southern California (USC). This game will take place at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, California, on Tuesday at 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time. It will be broadcast live on Peacock.
Game Overview
The matchup features Indiana (15-7, 6-5) going head-to-head with USC (16-6, 5-6). USC enters the game as a slight favorite, with a betting line at approximately 1.5 points. In their recent history, Indiana leads the all-time series against USC 3-2, with the last encounter resulting in a 82-69 victory for Indiana on January 8, 2025.
Coaching Insights
USC’s head coach, Eric Musselman, is in his second season with the program. Notably, he has a long coaching career with a record of 254 wins and 117 losses. Musselman previously led Arkansas to multiple NCAA tournament appearances, reaching the Elite Eight twice.
USC’s Season Performance
USC has proven to be a competitive team this season. They have showcased remarkable resilience, holding a 6-1 record in one-possession games. This success highlights their ability to perform under pressure, setting them apart in the Big Ten.
Key Players to Watch
- Chad Baker-Mazara: The leading scorer for USC, averaging 18.8 points per game, ranks seventh in the Big Ten.
- Ausar Ezra: Notable for his consistency, he averages 10.0 points in the first half and 9.9 in the second half of games.
- Jacob Cofie: He has started every game this season, averaging 8.4 rebounds per game in January.
- Kam Woods: A graduate transfer, Woods has made a significant impact, scoring a career-high 33 points against Iowa.
USC’s Playing Style
This season, USC has focused on scoring within the paint. About 51.2% of their shots come from this area, contributing to 65% of their total baskets. Additionally, their assist rate stands out, with nearly 50% of their two-point baskets being assisted.
Injury Report
The Trojans have faced injury setbacks. Star guard Rodney Rice is out for the season. Fellow guard Amarion Dickerson is out for three to four months. Meanwhile, Alijah Arenas has returned to the lineup after recovering from an injury.
Matchup Predictions
The upcoming game against Indiana will test USC’s depth and strategy. With both teams vying for a crucial victory, fans expect a highly competitive matchup. Analysts predict a close game, with many favoring Indiana to win 78-75 over USC.
The stage is set for an exciting clash. Fans will be watching closely to see if USC can leverage its home-court advantage and key player performances to secure a crucial win. Tune in to Filmogaz.com for live updates and analysis of this important matchup.
