Pac-12 Basketball: What would a conference challenge look like?

USC Trojans vs Fresno State Bulldogs

Fresno State has emerged as a consistent contender in the Mountain West. They’ve gone the transfer route this spring to replenish their guard line in getting Ray Bowles and Braxton Huggins.

With Jaron Hopkins, a potential conference player of the year dark horse, the Bulldogs will go for the Mountain West title this season. Although they might not have as high a ceiling as some other teams in their conference, a tournament appearance is certainly possible.

While the Bulldogs have tournament hopes, the Trojans have final four aspirations. Returning everyone of significance along with Derryck Thorton coming off a redshirt year, USC will look to win the Pac-12 this year. They have size down low with Metu and Boatright returning and shooters all around including Jonah Mathews and Jordan McLaughlin for another year.

Not only do they have one of the best starting lineups in the country, but top 50 freshman Charles O’Bannon Jr. will also look to make an impact on this stacked roster.

Fresno State should gain some valuable experience for conference play facing the Trojans early in the year. It will help when they face bigger and athletic teams like Nevada and San Diego State later on.

While the Bulldogs can match up against the Trojans along the guard lines, there’s a massive disadvantage on the frontlines. That will make the difference in this game.

Prediction: USC