The USC Trojans men’s basketball team secured an 88-71 victory over Maryland on Tuesday night, but the win came with a lineup far removed from initial expectations. Injuries and unexpected player development have forced Head Coach Eric Musselman to constantly adapt his strategy during the Big Ten season.
A Season of Reinvention
USC’s success, currently at 14 wins and trending toward an NCAA tournament invite for the first time since 2023, has been built on a foundation of constant change. Musselman has started all ten players in his rotation at some point, utilizing no single lineup for more than 6.9% of the time over the last five games, according to KenPom.com. This fluidity is a direct response to a series of setbacks.
Five-star freshman Alijah Arenas remains sidelined with a knee injury, with his return delayed at least one week. Leading December scorer Chad Baker-Mazara was unable to play Tuesday due to a sore neck, and November’s leading scorer, Rodney Rice, is recovering from shoulder surgery. The team has faced challenges beyond key absences, with recent blowout losses to Michigan and Michigan State.
Unexpected Contributions
Despite the adversity, players previously outside the spotlight have stepped up. Jordan Marsh led the team with 20 points Tuesday, despite playing only seven minutes in the prior two games. 7-foot-5 center Gabe Dynes, who was averaging just seven minutes per game earlier in the season, has become a key contributor, averaging over 23 minutes in the last five games. Ryan Cornish, a Dartmouth transfer, didn’t enter the rotation until December and has since become a starter.
Musselman has emphasized the need for players to “step up,” and players like Cornish and Dynes have answered the call. Cornish credited his defensive effort and willingness to contribute in other ways for earning the coaching staff’s trust. Dynes’ increased playing time has also allowed 6-9 forward Jacob Cofie to expand his role, playing on the wing and focusing on three-pointers.
Looking Ahead
The team recently spent four nights together, focusing on team bonding and alleviating pressure after a difficult stretch of games. However, the situation remains fluid. Arenas’ return is uncertain, dependent on approval from his inner circle. Baker-Mazara’s neck issue has also drawn scrutiny from Musselman, who stated the team will prioritize players who are “practicing hard.”
USC’s next challenge is a game against No. 5 Purdue, a team with a well-established system and years of experience playing together. The Trojans’ constantly shifting lineups could prove to be an advantage, as Cornish noted, leaving Purdue unsure of what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused USC’s lineup to be so different than expected?
Injuries to key players like Alijah Arenas, Chad Baker-Mazara, and Rodney Rice, combined with the emergence of unexpected contributors, have forced Coach Musselman to constantly adjust the lineup.
How has Coach Musselman responded to the challenges?
Musselman has embraced a strategy of constant reinvention, starting all ten players in his rotation and utilizing no single lineup for more than 6.9% of the time over the last five games.
What is the team’s current record and tournament outlook?
The Trojans currently have 14 wins and are trending toward an NCAA tournament invite for the first time since 2023.
Will USC’s unpredictable approach be enough to overcome a seasoned opponent like Purdue, or will consistency prove to be the key to success?
