USC Trojans crushed by No. 10 Illinois, 101-65

Trojans undermanned and outmatched in lopsided loss at home

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The USC Trojans were no match for the No. 10 ranked Illinois Fighting Illini, falling 101-65 in a blowout loss at the Galen Center. Plagued by injuries to key players, the undermanned and undersized Trojans were outclassed from the opening tip as Illinois shot an impressive 52% from the field and had seven players score in double figures.

Why it matters

This lopsided defeat marks a low point in head coach Eric Musselman's second season with the Trojans, as the team continues to struggle with injuries and a lack of depth. The loss raises questions about the direction of the program and Musselman's ability to turn things around.

The details

USC entered the game without leading scorer Chad Baker-Mazara, who was sidelined with a knee injury, and also missed freshman Alijah Arenas due to illness. The Trojans were simply overmatched against the talented Illini, who led 54-32 at halftime after a historically efficient first-half performance. Illinois shot an impressive 52% from the field and had seven players score in double figures, led by 22 points from junior guard Andrej Stojakovic.

  • The game took place on Wednesday night at the Galen Center in Los Angeles.

The players

Eric Musselman

Head coach of the USC Trojans men's basketball team.

Rodney Rice

USC Trojans player who has missed time due to injury this season.

Amarion Dickerson

USC Trojans player who has missed time due to injury this season.

Chad Baker-Mazara

USC Trojans leading scorer who missed the game against Illinois due to a knee injury.

Alijah Arenas

USC Trojans freshman who missed the game against Illinois due to illness.

Andrej Stojakovic

Junior guard for the Illinois Fighting Illini who led the team with 22 points.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't think USC played well on either side of the ball.”

— Eric Musselman, Head Coach, USC Trojans (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Trojans will look to rebound on Saturday when they host the Oregon Ducks.

The takeaway

This blowout loss highlights the challenges facing the USC Trojans this season, as they continue to be undermined by injuries and struggle to compete with top-tier opponents. Head coach Eric Musselman will need to find a way to get his team healthy and competitive if he hopes to turn the program around in his second year.