USC Men's Hoops Plagued by Injuries, Could Have Been Big Ten Contender

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The USC Trojans men's basketball team has had an up-and-down season plagued by injuries, forcing them to use different lineups on a nightly basis. Despite the setbacks, standout player Alijah Arenas has stepped up in a big way, averaging 26 points per game over his last three contests. However, the Trojans could have been a Sweet 16-caliber team if they had a fully healthy roster featuring Arenas, Rodney Rice, and Chad Baker-Mazara, according to CBS Sports analyst Jon Rothstein.

Why it matters

The Trojans' injury woes have prevented them from reaching their full potential this season, as the trio of Arenas, Rice, and Baker-Mazara would have formed one of the most formidable backcourts in the Big Ten. Despite the setbacks, USC remains in contention for a tournament berth, highlighting the resilience of the team and the star power of Alijah Arenas.

The details

Rodney Rice was averaging 20 points per game in the first six games of the season before suffering a devastating injury, while Chad Baker-Mazara was putting up 18.3 points per game before going down. With all three scorers healthy and on the court together, the Trojans would have been a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. Instead, they've had to rely on one elite scorer at a time, with Arenas, Rice, and Baker-Mazara each taking turns leading the team.

• Rodney Rice was averaging 20 points per game in the first 6 games of the season.
• Chad Baker-Mazara was averaging 18.3 points per game before his injury.
• Alijah Arenas has averaged 26 points per game over his last 3 games.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Trojans will need more great performances from Alijah Arenas and other players to achieve their goal of making the NCAA Tournament, despite the significant injuries they have faced this season.