USC Trojans have been one of the more consistent teams in the country through the season’s first two months.
A 12-1 Start That Turned Heads
The Trojans sit at 12-1, taking care of business in games they were expected to win and showing composure in tighter spots. Their lone loss came at home against the Washington Huskies, a result that still stands out simply because USC has been so steady everywhere else.
That loss has not lingered. USC responded the way good teams do, refocusing and continuing to stack wins without much noise or drama. It has been a mature stretch of basketball, one that suggests this group understands how quickly seasons can turn.
Alijah Arenas Returns to the Floor
One of the more encouraging developments for USC came off the court. Freshman guard Alijah Arenas practiced with the team for the first time since suffering a knee injury last summer. Arenas, who required surgery after the injury was diagnosed in July, has spent months rehabbing and staying mentally engaged by meeting daily with the coaching staff.
Head coach Eric Musselman praised Arenas’ basketball IQ and energy, noting how natural it felt to have him back in practice. Arenas is targeting a mid January debut, which could provide USC with an added boost just as the schedule stiffens.
January Begins on the Road
The calendar flip brings immediate challenges. USC opens January on January 2 with a road trip to face the Michigan Wolverines. Winning in Ann Arbor is never easy, particularly early in conference play when urgency is high and margins are thin.
Four days later, the Trojans head to East Lansing to take on the Michigan State Spartans. That matchup promises physical play and demands patience, especially for a team still getting its footing in a new conference environment.
No Easy Stops in the Middle
USC’s road stretch continues on January 9 with a visit to the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Games like this often test focus more than talent. Minnesota has a way of dragging teams into uncomfortable possessions, and USC will need to bring energy from the opening tip.
After three straight road games, USC returns home on January 13 to host the Maryland Terrapins. It is a chance to regroup, but the schedule offers little relief.
A Home Test That Will Say a Lot
Just three days after facing Maryland, USC welcomes the Purdue Boilermakers on January 16. Purdue brings size, discipline, and experience, and this game could serve as a measuring stick for where USC truly stands in the Big Ten.
The stretch wraps up on January 21 against the Northwestern Wildcats. By then, USC will have answers to questions that December could not fully provide.
USC’s 12-1 start has earned attention and respect. January will demand more than consistency. It will demand toughness, depth, and adaptability. With reinforcements potentially on the way and a challenging slate ahead, the Trojans have an opportunity to define their season before it even reaches the midpoint.