As the college basketball season heads into its most thrilling phase, the USC Menโs Basketball team is gearing up to take on Tulane in the inaugural College Basketball Crown.
Held in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, this tournament offers the Trojans a chance to shine on a national stage.
With a season record of 16-17, USC is looking to capitalize on their recent performances and make a significant impact in the postseason.
The Trojansโ first game is set for April 1 against the Tulane Green Wave, a team they have historically dominated. This matchup promises to be a captivating encounter as both teams vie for glory.
USCโs Season Recap and Recent Performances
The Trojans have had a rollercoaster season, ending with a 16-17 record.
Their most recent game was a nail-biter against No. 20 Purdue in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament. Despite a valiant effort, USC fell short with a 76-71 loss.
Four Trojans scored in double digits during this game, showcasing a balanced offensive attack.
Desmond Claude led the team with 18 points, while Wesley Yates III added 13 points, seven rebounds, and three assists.
Rashaun Agee and Matt Knowling each contributed 11 points.
Key Players to Watch
The Trojansโ success hinges on the performances of their key players:
- Desmond Claude: Leading scorer with 18 points against Purdue.
- Wesley Yates III: A versatile player contributing in multiple facets of the game.
- Rashaun Agee and Matt Knowling: Consistent scorers who add depth to the team.
Scouting the Tulane Green Wave
Tulane finished fourth in the AAC with a 12-6 conference record and an overall record of 19-14.
The Green Waveโs season concluded with a loss to nationally-ranked Memphis in the AAC tournament semifinals.
Tulaneโs performance at neutral sites has been less impressive, with a 1-4 record.
Their success often hinges on their defensive prowess, holding opponents to 69 points per game on 40.5% shooting from the field.
Defensive Strengths
Tulaneโs defense has been a cornerstone of their success:
- Opponents are limited to 31% shooting from beyond the arc.
- The Green Wave forces nearly 12 turnovers per game.
Key Players to Watch
Several Tulane players have stood out this season:
- Rowan Brumbaugh: Leading scorer with 15.4 points per game and a standout in steals.
- Kaleb Banks: Second in scoring with 14.7 points per game and the teamโs leading rebounder.
- Asher Woods: Reliable scorer in AAC play, averaging 13.1 points per game.
- Gregg Glenn III: Contributing 10.9 points per game and 3.2 assists per game.
USCโs Postseason Aspirations
USC has a history of strong postseason performances. The Trojans have won their last six opening-round games, and Coach Eric Musselman boasts a perfect 10-0 record in opening-round wins in conference tournaments.
Musselman, who previously led the University of Nevada to win the College Basketball Invitational, aims to replicate that success with USC in the College Basketball Crown.
Offensive Prowess
The Trojans have been impressive on the offensive end, boasting a 117.1 offensive rating, which ranks 38th in the NCAA according to KenPom.
This high-powered offense will be crucial as they face a formidable Tulane defense.
Game Details and How to Follow
The highly anticipated matchup between USC and Tulane will take place on Tuesday, April 1, at 8 p.m. at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Fans can catch all the action on FS1 or listen through the ESPN LA app.
This game is a must-watch for any college basketball enthusiast, as both teams bring unique strengths to the court.
For more in-depth coverage and updates on USC Menโs Basketball, visit the official USC Trojans website.
As the Trojans prepare for this crucial game, their fans eagerly await to see if they can continue their postseason success and make a deep run in the College Basketball Crown.
With a balanced offense and a history of strong tournament performances, USC is poised to make a significant impact in Las Vegas.
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