The USC Trojans are gearing up for a significant matchup against the No. 10 Illinois Fighting Illini on Wednesday night, with the potential for a stunning upset on the horizon. However, the Trojans may face challenges as reports indicate that freshman shooting guard Alijah Arenas is dealing with an illness and will be a game-time decision.
According to Ryan Kartje from the L.A. Times, Arenas has fallen ill unexpectedly, leaving his availability uncertain for the crucial game. Even if he does take the court, his physical condition might limit his effectiveness during the matchup.
“Star USC freshman Alijah Arenas is sick and will be a game-time decision for tonight’s critical home matchup vs. Illinois, a source tells L.A. Times. Arenas has been on a tear over his last three games. Even if he plays, it’s unclear how depleted he’ll be physically,” reported Kartje.
Arenas’s journey has not been without its struggles. The young athlete was involved in a serious car accident in April 2025 that resulted in a coma, and upon his return to basketball, he faced a setback with a torn meniscus in his right knee—an injury that surfaced just two weeks after being medically cleared to play.
When healthy, Arenas has showcased his talent, averaging 15.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.0 steals per game over seven appearances this season. His shooting stats stand at 34.7% from the field and 25.0% from behind the three-point arc.
As the son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, Alijah is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in college basketball. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for a swift recovery from his illness, eager to see him back on the court contributing to the Trojans’ efforts in this pivotal game. With Arenas’s potential impact, should he play, the Trojans might have the extra push needed to vie for an upset against a ranked opponent.