USC's men's basketball team wrapped up their 2025-2026 season with a heartbreaker, falling 83-79 in overtime to Washington in the Big Ten Tournament's second round. This marked the end of a season that started with promise but ended with disappointment, as the Trojans dropped their last eight games, missing out on March Madness entirely.
The Eric Musselman Era So Far
Eric Musselman has faced his share of challenges since taking the helm at USC nearly two years ago. Injuries plagued the Trojans this season, but the late-season collapse and the Chad Baker-Mazara controversy have cast a shadow over his tenure. Despite the initial excitement surrounding his hire, the Trojans have struggled, sitting closer to the bottom of the Big Ten and posting an 0-4 record against UCLA.
Fan Apathy and Attendance Woes
Attendance has been lackluster, with empty seats becoming a common sight at home games. The lack of enthusiasm from the fan base has been palpable, as visiting fans often outnumber the home crowd at Galen Center.
Challenges from the Start
Musselman inherited a depleted roster when he joined in April 2024, forcing him to rely heavily on transfer portal additions. The transition to a new conference with increased travel demands added to the hurdles, making his first season one to forget. This year, injuries further compounded the team's struggles, as USC was the most injury-riddled team in the nation.
Too Soon to Write Him Off
Despite these challenges, it’s premature to call for Musselman's departure. He deserves a fair shot with a healthy and competitive roster. However, the pressure is mounting, and the Trojans need to build momentum soon.
The Need for a Turnaround
While it's not yet a do-or-die situation for Musselman in 2026-2027, the expectation is clear: improvement is necessary. The program was supposed to ascend under his leadership, but instead, it seems to have regressed from the solid foundation Andy Enfield left behind.
Proving He's the Right Choice
Musselman is known for his genuine care for his players and the program, but as history has shown, winning is essential. It's time for him to invigorate the Trojans and demonstrate that he can lead them to success in the Big Ten and beyond. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether he can fulfill the promise that brought him to USC in the first place.