NCAA Basketball: Duke, Michigan State fall in latest top 25 power ranking
By Joey Loose
17. USC (2-0)
With the combination of experienced guard Boogie Ellis and 5-star freshman Isaiah Collier in the backcourt, big things are expected from the Trojans this season. Andy Enfield led this program to the Elite Eight just two and a half years ago and could have a talented team that could make a similar impact in March. In USC’s final season in the Pac-12, can they emerge as one of this conference’s very best?
USC was one of the few teams truly challenged on opening night, winning 82-69 against Kansas State in a game in Las Vegas. Ellis led the way with 24 points and 8 rebounds while Collier had 18 points and 6 assists in his collegiate debut. They were back in action on Thursday night, securing an 85-59 win over Cal State Bakersfield, with Collier’s 19-point performance leading the charge this time.
If the Trojans can get decent production from some of the names in their frontcourt, then this backcourt duo could certainly lead them to some pretty high heights. Obviously, getting a double-digit win over a very solid Kansas State squad was a great start to the season, but there will be more challenges ahead. Those don’t come in the near future, as home dates against UC Irvine and Brown dot next week’s schedule.