Recap
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USC Trojans' Efforts Fall Short Against Michigan Wolverines in Crisler Center Clash

First Half


The USC Trojans, ranked 24th, faced off against the 2nd-ranked Michigan Wolverines at the Crisler Center. The game concluded with a score of 96-66 in favor of the home team, bringing USC's record to 0-1 and Michigan's to 1-0. In the first half, the Trojans struggled to find their rhythm offensively, managing only 31 points. Despite their efforts on defense with three blocks and five steals, they couldn't contain Michigan's offense which racked up an impressive 49 points.


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) shoots in the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Second Half


As the second half unfolded, SC attempted a comeback by scoring an additional 35 points. Ezra Ausar led his team with a notable performance contributing significantly to their offensive efforts. However, turnovers plagued SC throughout the game as they committed a total of 21 turnovers compared to Michigan's disciplined play resulting in only eleven turnovers.


Game-Changing Plays


One of the game-changing plays for USC Trojans vs Michigan Wolverines was when Chad Baker-Mazara made crucial assists that temporarily narrowed down Wolverine’s lead but ultimately wasn't enough against Maize and Blue’s relentless attack which saw them extend their lead further during fast breaks totaling twenty-six fast break points overall.


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Southern California Trojans forward Jacob Cofie (6) grabs the rebound in the first half against the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Post Game Analysis


In post-game analysis from this encounter between these collegiate powerhouses; it became evident how pivotal maintaining possession is especially when facing top-tier opponents like those found within Big Ten Conference such as ‘the’ Wolverines who capitalized efficiently off every mistake made by ‘the’ Trojans leading them towards victory through strategic execution both offensively & defensively across all quarters played today here at Ann Arbor venue known famously among fans nationwide simply called “Crisler”.


Looking ahead after this challenging matchup: The next opportunity arises soon enough where supporters can catch live action featuring our beloved team once more battling against another formidable foe -Michigan State Spartans scheduled January fifth starting eight-thirty PM Eastern Time located inside Jack Breslin Students Events Center situated East Lansing broadcasted exclusively via Fox Sports One network channel available nationwide so mark calendars accordingly!


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines guard Elliot Cadeau (3) passes to forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) in the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

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