In a nail-biting finish at the Galen Center, the USC Trojans fell just short against the Oregon Ducks, losing 71-70 in a game that could have significant implications for their NCAA Tournament hopes. Chad Baker-Mazara, returning from a knee strain, delivered an impressive 21-point performance, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.
The Trojans, sitting at 18-9 overall and 7-9 in the Big Ten, saw Ezra Ausar contribute a solid double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Alijah Arenas added 13 points and five assists. Jacob Cofie anchored the defense with five blocks, showcasing his presence in the paint.
Oregon, struggling this season with a 10-17 record, found a hero in Kwame Evans Jr., who matched Baker-Mazara's 21 points. Despite their recent woes, the Ducks managed to snap a tough streak, having lost 11 of their last 12 games.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with USC taking a 63-56 lead after Arenas nailed a 3-pointer followed by a jump shot. Cofie’s free throw seemed to give the Trojans a comfortable 70-64 cushion with just over a minute to play.
However, the Ducks surged back as Evans drove for a layup and then nailed a crucial 3-pointer following a Cofie turnover, cutting the lead to one. With just 10 seconds left, Baker-Mazara fouled out, sending Nate Bittle to the line. The 7-footer calmly sank both free throws, putting Oregon ahead for good after an Arenas turnover sealed USC's fate.
Baker-Mazara's return was a bright spot for USC. The 6-foot-7 wing was efficient, scoring 15 of his 21 points in the first half, shooting 4-for-7 from the field, including 3-for-5 from beyond the arc, and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. His early efforts helped USC to a 13-9 lead with a fast-break 3-pointer and a smooth layup.
USC faced challenges throughout, with Ausar and Kam Woods focusing on disrupting Bittle, who had recently returned from an ankle injury. The Trojans led by eight midway through the first half but found themselves trailing 35-32 at halftime after a 13-2 run by Oregon, fueled by Dezdrick Lindsay's clutch shooting.
The Trojans’ defense tightened in the second half, forcing Oregon into 10 turnovers, but foul trouble for Baker-Mazara with 16 minutes left forced Coach Eric Musselman to adjust. Despite his absence, USC managed an eight-point run to stay competitive, highlighted by a Cofie-to-Ausar dunk.
Next up, USC faces a crucial matchup against crosstown rival UCLA at Pauley Pavilion, where they'll look to bounce back and bolster their postseason chances.