Three Things to Watch for in USC Trojans Basketball’s Clash vs. Wichita State

After a comfortable 95-63 win over the Milwaukee Panthersto open the 2026-27 college basketball season, the No. 21 USC Trojans will face their first test of their non-conference schedule against the Wichita State Shockers in the Lake Tahoe Classic on Sunday night.

The excitement is high for the Trojans in their third season under coach Eric Musselman, as they have major expectations to reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time in four years. The Trojans have the roster to do just that with key returns, a top-ranked recruiting class, and talented transfer additions. Here are three things to watch as the Trojans look to beat the Shockers on Sunday night.

Advertisement

How Will Ratliff Brothers Build On Impressive Debut?

Mar 31, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Adonis Ratliff (9) during the McDonalds All American Boys Game at Desert Diamond Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Other than five-star forward Christian Collins, the Trojans 2026 recruiting class is highlighted by a pair of four-star brothers, Adonis and Darius Ratliff, who both have great potential in their freshman seasons. The two brothers impressed in their Trojan debut, both earning spots in the starting lineup and combining for 39 points.

It was Adonis who led the way for the Trojans in their victory over the Panthers, scoring 25 points, six rebounds, and three assists on 7-of-10 shooting. Darius added 14 points, two rebounds, and two assists on 5-of-10 shooting.

Advertisement

The two also showed the impact they can have defensively for the Trojans. Combining for seven blocks. Now, the two look to build on their impressive debut for the Trojans in Sunday night’s Lake Tahoe Classic against the Shockers, who will present a tougher challenge for the pair of talented freshmen.

The Backcourt Duo of Rodney Rice and Alijah Arenas

Nov 14, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Southern California Trojans guard Rodney Rice (1) shoots a free throw during the first half of the Hall of Fame Series…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/three-things-watch-usc-trojans-213000838.html

Author :

Publish date : 2026-11-07 21:30:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.