No. 24 USC stared down a hostile road environment and a relentless Oregon squad to win its Big Ten opener 82-77, moving to a perfect 8-0 on the season. The victory wasn’t just another win; it was a statement that the Trojans’ new national ranking is earned, sealed by Chad Baker-Mazara‘s late-game heroics and a deep roster that stepped up in a crucial moment.
In the unforgiving atmosphere of a conference road opener, the No. 24 USC Trojans proved their mettle. Riding a 25-point performance from Chad Baker-Mazara, USC outlasted the Oregon Ducks 82-77 in Eugene to continue its best start since the 2021-22 season. The win improves their record to 8-0 and validates their recent entry into the AP Top 25 for the first time in over two years.
This was more than just a win; it was a test of resilience. Playing without leading scorer Rodney Rice due to an injury, the Trojans needed others to step up, and they delivered across the board. The victory also snapped a five-game losing streak against the Ducks, exorcising a recent demon and setting a powerful tone for their Big Ten campaign.
The Closer: Baker-Mazara Seals the Deal
When the game tightened, Chad Baker-Mazara took over. After a dunk by Oregon’s Sean Stewart cut the USC lead to a precarious 73-72 with just over three minutes remaining, Baker-Mazara answered with a critical basket. But his biggest shot came with the clock winding down. Clinging to a three-point lead, he drilled a clutch 3-pointer with 1:02 left, extending the advantage to 78-73 and crushing Oregon’s comeback hopes. That shot was the dagger, capping a night where he was USC’s undeniable offensive engine.
Depth on Full Display
Winning on the road in conference play is tough. Winning without your leading scorer is a monumental task. Yet, the Trojans showcased the kind of depth championship contenders are made of. Jacob Cofie was instrumental, pouring in 17 points, 16 of which came in a blistering first-half performance that kept USC in the game as both teams went into halftime tied at 39.
The support didn’t stop there. Forward Ezra Ausar was a force on the glass, finishing with 13 points and eight rebounds, while Jaden Brownell and Jerry Easter II each contributed a vital 11 points. Easter’s late free throws helped ice the game, demonstrating a team-wide composure that will be essential throughout the grueling college basketball season.
Oregon’s Valiant but Vain Effort
The Oregon Ducks (4-4) are now mired in a four-game losing streak, but they didn’t make it easy for USC. Playing their second straight game without injured 7-foot center Nate Bittle, the Ducks fought relentlessly. Kwame Evans Jr. was a dominant force, nearly posting a double-double with 23 points and nine rebounds, while guard Takai Simpkins added 17 points and five assists.
Despite their efforts and a home crowd behind them, the Ducks couldn’t find the crucial stop in the final two minutes. Their inability to contain Baker-Mazara down the stretch proved to be their undoing, leaving them with a frustrating start to their conference schedule.
Why This Win Echoes Beyond Eugene
For USC, this victory is a significant marker. It’s a road win against a tough conference rival, achieved with a depleted roster. It proves their efficient offense, which shot 50.9% from the field, can travel. Most importantly, it builds the identity of a team that doesn’t fold under pressure. Surviving this kind of test early in the Big Ten season is a massive confidence builder and sends a clear message to the rest of the conference: the Trojans are not just undefeated; they are battle-tested and ready for the fight.
Looking ahead, the path doesn’t get easier. USC returns home for a matchup against Washington on Saturday, while Oregon will look to rebound on the road against UCLA.
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