The USC Trojans men’s basketball team achieved a significant milestone by defeating the No. 13 Illinois Illini with a final score of 82-72, marking their first ranked road win since December 21, 2010, against No. 19 Tennessee. The victory, which took place during their Midwest trip, showcased a stellar performance from Desmond Claude, who scored a season-high 31 points, demonstrating his scoring prowess for the Trojans. This achievement was remarkable as it was Claude’s sixth game of the season where he scored 20 or more points.
Wesley Yates III also made a notable contribution, scoring 15 points and maintaining an impressive shooting percentage, having hit all of his shots in the first half. Agee rounded out the trio of top scorers with 13 points. Collectively, the Trojans excelled in the paint, outscoring the Illini 46-30, and managed to secure 12 second-chance points compared to Illinois’ nine.
USC displayed solid defensive skills, notably limiting the Illini to only 24 defensive rebounds and 34 total rebounds. The Trojans effectively controlled the game tempo as per their coaching strategy, focusing on transitioning for high-percentage shots like layups and dunks instead of settling for three-pointers or mid-range jumpers. This tactical approach paid off as USC made six consecutive baskets during a critical stretch in the game, extending their lead to ten points with only five minutes remaining.
Coach’s comments post-game emphasized the importance of toughness and effort, noting that the players deserved this rewarding victory after their consistent hard work throughout the season. He highlighted that despite frustrations from previous losses, the team continues to demonstrate energy and enthusiasm.
The Trojans are set to return to action at Galen Center on January 14, 2025, facing off against the University of Iowa Hawkeyes at 7:30 p.m. Fans not attending the game can catch the action on FS1 or listen live on ESPN LA 710.
This victory not only boosts morale within the USC squad but also signifies a turning point in their season, providing hope as they look to build on this momentum in future games. As they prepare for their next match, supporters can remain optimistic about the team’s potential and continued improvement.