Iowa Stifles USC's Chad Baker-Mazara in Defensive Showdown

Hawkeyes look to extend winning streak against high-powered Trojans offense

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:39pm

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The Iowa Hawkeyes will host the USC Trojans in a clash of Big Ten and Pac-12 powers, with both teams looking to build momentum. Iowa's stifling defense will be put to the test against USC's high-scoring offense led by standout Chad Baker-Mazara. The Hawkeyes have won two straight after a three-game skid, while the Trojans are coming off a close victory over Wisconsin.

Why it matters

This matchup features two teams with contrasting styles - Iowa's defensive-minded approach against USC's high-octane offense. The outcome could have implications for both teams' postseason aspirations as they look to position themselves for a strong finish to the regular season.

The details

Iowa's defense has been its calling card this season, holding opponents to just 62.4 points per game, the fourth-lowest average in the nation. However, the Hawkeyes have struggled when allowing 70 or more points, going just 1-4 in those games. USC, meanwhile, is 11-0 when scoring 80 or more points, led by Baker-Mazara's 19.2 points per game. The Trojans will look to push the pace and test Iowa's defensive discipline.

  • The game will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 in Iowa City, Iowa.
  • Iowa is coming off an 8-day layoff since its last game, a 68-62 win over Rutgers on January 20.

The players

Chad Baker-Mazara

A standout junior guard for USC, averaging 19.2 points per game and ranking sixth in the Big Ten in scoring.

Bennett Stirtz

Iowa's leading scorer, averaging 18.3 points per game and just behind Baker-Mazara in the Big Ten scoring race.

Jacob Cofie

USC's rebounding force, grabbing a double-double in each of the Trojans' last three games.

Ben McCollum

Iowa's head coach, looking to guide the Hawkeyes to their third straight win after a three-game losing streak.

Eric Musselman

USC's head coach, tasked with game-planning against Iowa's stifling defense.

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What they’re saying

“We must make sure we use some of the stuff we did throughout that break and become a little better for it, and not have any rust or slippage.”

— Ben McCollum, Head Coach, Iowa

“His effort to pursue balls has been phenomenal.”

— Eric Musselman, Head Coach, USC

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a big step towards securing a favorable seed in their respective conference tournament, with both teams looking to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

The takeaway

This matchup between Iowa's stifling defense and USC's high-powered offense will be a fascinating chess match, as the Hawkeyes look to slow down the Trojans' scoring attack led by Chad Baker-Mazara. The outcome could have significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations.