USC vs. Northwestern Preview: Arenas Debut Headlines a Must-Win for the Trojans
USC men’s basketball may have come up short against No. 5 Purdue, but don’t let the final score fool you-there were real signs of growth in that five-point loss.
After earlier blowouts at the hands of Michigan and Michigan State, the Trojans showed they can hang with elite competition, even while shorthanded. That kind of performance won’t show up in the win column, but it could carry weight come NCAA Tournament selection time.
Still, moral victories only go so far. With conference play heating up and the margin for error shrinking, the Trojans need to start stacking wins. That begins Wednesday at home against a struggling Northwestern team still searching for its first Big Ten victory.
Let’s break down five key storylines heading into a pivotal matchup for USC:
1. A Shot at Revenge
Last February, USC dropped a heartbreaker to Northwestern in Evanston, 77-75. The Trojans were without Desmond Claude that night, but still had chances to close it out late.
While none of the current players suited up in that game, head coach Eric Musselman and his staff haven’t forgotten. That loss stung-and you can bet they’ve had this rematch circled.
For a team still trying to find its identity in a new conference, this is more than just another game. It’s a chance to flip the narrative, settle a score, and get back on track in front of the home crowd.
2. The Alijah Arenas Era Begins
All eyes will be on freshman guard Alijah Arenas, who is expected to make his long-awaited debut Tuesday night. The five-star phenom-and son of NBA legend Gilbert Arenas-has been one of the most anticipated additions to college basketball this season. Now, Trojan fans finally get to see what all the hype is about.
Arenas brings elite scoring instincts and a polished offensive game that could make an immediate impact, especially with Rodney Rice sidelined. How quickly he adjusts to the college pace, and how Musselman integrates him into the rotation, could shape the rest of USC’s season.
This is the most buzzed-about USC debut since Bronny James stepped onto the court in 2023. If Arenas lives up to the billing, the Trojans may have just found the spark they need to elevate their ceiling in Big Ten play.
3. Free Throw Fix Needed-Fast
USC’s free throw shooting has been a surprising weak spot, and it cost them dearly against Purdue. The Trojans went just 5-for-14 from the line-an uncharacteristic 35.7%-in a game decided by five points. That’s the kind of stat that keeps coaches up at night.
Ezra Ausar, who usually does a solid job drawing contact, went 3-for-6. Jacob Cofie, Jaden Brownell, and Jordan Marsh combined to go 0-for-8. And Chad Baker-Mazara, one of the nation’s most reliable free throw shooters at over 90%, didn’t get to the line at all.
This team has shown it can earn trips to the stripe, especially through aggressive play from Ausar and Baker-Mazara. But converting those chances is non-negotiable-especially in tight games against quality opponents. Expect free throw shooting to be a point of emphasis heading into the Northwestern matchup.
4. Defensive Identity Taking Shape?
Despite the loss, USC may have delivered its best defensive effort of the season against Purdue. The Boilermakers came in shooting over 51% from the field but were held to just 41.8% by the Trojans. Purdue’s 69 points marked their second-lowest scoring output of the year, and standout point guard Braden Smith was limited to just four points in the second half.
That’s the kind of defensive grit Musselman-coached teams are known for, and it’s been missing for stretches this season-particularly on the perimeter. Recently, USC has leaned into a bigger starting lineup, featuring Gabe Dynes alongside Ausar and Cofie in the frontcourt. The early returns suggest it’s helping.
If this group can continue to build on that defensive momentum, they’ll be a much tougher out come March. But consistency is key. The Northwestern game offers a chance to prove that Saturday’s effort wasn’t a one-off.
5. Slowing Down Nick Martinelli
Everything for Northwestern runs through Nick Martinelli-and for good reason. The 6’7” forward is averaging 23.7 points per game while shooting a blistering 56% from the field and 53% from deep. He’s scored 20 or more in 11 of his last 12 games and has become one of the most efficient scorers in the country.
USC knows firsthand how dangerous he can be. Martinelli dropped 27 points on the Trojans last season, including the game-winning shot in the final seconds.
This time, expect Jacob Cofie to draw the primary assignment. Cofie’s size and mobility make him USC’s best option to disrupt Martinelli’s rhythm, both inside and out. If the Trojans can contain him-or at least make him work for his points-they’ll be in a strong position to control the game.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just a midweek matchup between two teams trying to find their footing. It’s a critical moment for USC-a team that’s shown flashes of potential but needs to start turning those flashes into wins.
With Alijah Arenas set to make his debut, a shot at redemption on the table, and a chance to build on a strong defensive showing, the stakes are high. The Trojans have the tools to make a run in the Big Ten. Now it’s about execution.
Tuesday night could be the start of something big-or just another missed opportunity. Either way, it’s must-watch basketball at Galen Center.