USC Men's Basketball Prepares for Unexpected Non-Conference Matchup with UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs
The USC men's basketball team is set to wrap up its 2025 home schedule with an unexpected non-conference game against UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs at Galen Center. This matchup replaces the canceled game against Brown University due to a campus shooting incident. The game is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 21 at 1:00 p.m. PT in Los Angeles, California, and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network with coverage on the USC Radio Network.
The Trojans recently signed graduate guard Kam Woods to bolster their backcourt rotation, as injuries have plagued the team. Woods, who joins from Robert Morris Colonials, brings scoring and playmaking abilities to the team. With key guards out due to injuries, Woods' immediate eligibility provides a much-needed boost to the Trojans' lineup.
Sunday's game is crucial for Woods to acclimate to the team and get valuable playing time before the start of Big Ten competition. Meanwhile, guard Ryan Cornish is coming off a standout performance against UTSA Roadrunners, showcasing his scoring and defensive skills. Coach Eric Musselman commended Cornish's growth and emphasized the importance of communication on the court.
The addition of Woods will impact the guard rotation, potentially affecting players like Cornish, Jerry Easter II, and Jordan Marsh. The game against UC Santa Cruz will offer insights into how the rotation adjusts with Woods in the mix. It's a pivotal moment for the Trojans as they prepare for the challenges of conference play and aim to solidify their lineup for the remainder of the season.