The USC Trojans achieved a significant victory over the No. 13 Illinois Illini, triumphing with an 82-72 score on Saturday. This win marked USC’s first road victory against a ranked opponent since December 21, 2010, when they defeated No. 19 Tennessee.
Desmond Claude led the charge for USC with an impressive season-high of 31 points, completing his sixth game of the season with 20 or more points. Wesley Yates III and Rashaun Agee also contributed to the team’s success, scoring 15 and 13 points respectively. Yates showcased his shooting prowess, finishing the first half with a 100 percent shooting accuracy.
Defensively, the Trojans were tenacious, limiting Illinois to just 34 total rebounds, far below their NCAA-leading averages. USC dominated in the paint, outscoring the Illini 46-30 and securing a total of 12 second-chance points compared to Illinois’ nine. The team executed a solid defensive strategy, allowing only one field goal through the first seven minutes of the game.
Coach emphasized the importance of this victory, noting that it reflects the hard work and commitment of the team. He stated, “It was the toughness and the effort. These guys got rewarded because they are playing so hard every night.” He also highlighted their approach to controlling the game’s tempo, focusing on optimal shot selection.
Moving forward, USC looks to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next game against the Iowa Hawkeyes on January 14, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Fans can catch the action on FS1 or tune in via ESPN LA 710.
This victory not only exemplifies the Trojans’ determination but also sets a hopeful trajectory for the remainder of the season, with players showing the potential to rise to the occasion against tough competition.