USC Men’s Basketball Triumphs Over Gonzaga in Thrilling Charity Exhibition
On October 26, 2024, the USC men’s basketball team showcased their talent and determination in a high-stakes charity exhibition game against the No. 6 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs. Held at the Acrisure Arena, the Trojans emerged victorious with a nail-biting score of 96-93, marking a significant early-season achievement for the team.
Standout Performances
Leading the charge for USC was grad transfer Terrance William II, who delivered an impressive 20-point performance. His scoring prowess was instrumental in securing the win, demonstrating his ability to step up in crucial moments. Williams wasn’t the only Trojan to shine; five players reached double digits in scoring, highlighting the team’s depth and versatility.
Chibuzo Agbo contributed significantly with 15 points and led the team in rebounding, pulling down seven boards. His presence in the paint was felt throughout the game, as he consistently battled for position and secured crucial rebounds. Desmond Claude also had a standout performance, scoring 19 points and showcasing his offensive skills. Meanwhile, Josh Cohen and Matt Knowling each added 13 points, rounding out a balanced scoring attack that kept Gonzaga on their toes.
Gonzaga’s Challenge
The Gonzaga Bulldogs, entering the game with a preseason ranking of No. 6 in the Associated Press Top 25 poll, were led by Arkansas grad transfer Khalif Battle. Standing at 6-foot-5, Battle matched Williams’ scoring output with 20 points, providing a formidable challenge for the Trojans. His performance, however, was not enough to overcome USC’s collective effort.
Despite their strong individual performances, the Zags struggled with their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. They managed to hit only 40.9% of their three-point attempts, going 9-for-22. This shooting inefficiency, coupled with USC’s solid defense, played a crucial role in the outcome of the game.
Game Dynamics
The game was a back-and-forth affair, but USC managed to maintain control for nearly 30 minutes. Their ability to dominate the boards was evident, as they outrebounded Gonzaga 34-32 and won the battle in the paint 38-32. The Trojans also showcased their defensive prowess by blocking five shots, disrupting Gonzaga’s offensive flow.
A pivotal moment came early in the second half when USC went on a quick 10-0 scoring run, establishing a double-digit lead. The Trojans’ largest lead of the game was 11 points, reaching 61-50 with just over ten minutes remaining. This surge was crucial in building momentum and confidence as they headed toward the final stretch of the game.
Second Half Surge
USC’s offensive explosion in the second half was a sight to behold, as they scored a staggering 59 points. This offensive outburst not only secured the victory but also showcased the team’s potential as they prepare for the upcoming season. The ability to score efficiently and effectively in the second half will be a key takeaway for the coaching staff as they analyze the game.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, USC finished the preseason with a perfect 2-0 record, setting a positive tone as they head into the regular season. The Trojans will host their first home game of the 2024-25 season against UT-Chattanooga at the Galen Center on November 4 at 7 p.m. This matchup marks the beginning of a six-game homestand, providing an excellent opportunity for the Trojans to build on their early success and further establish their identity as a competitive force in college basketball.
As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how USC builds on this momentum and whether they can carry this winning spirit into the regular season. The combination of experienced transfers and emerging talent could make for an exciting year ahead for Trojan basketball.