Evan Mobley introduced himself to USC basketball in a big way
Welcome to the Evan Mobley era of USC basketball.
On Wednesday night, the five-star forward made his debut for the Trojans at the Galen Center against California Baptist.
With 21 points, nine rebounds and three blocks, he was as advertised as one of the top prospects in the game.
Mobley’s scoring drove USC early while his six points in overtime were critical. His presence on defense also made a big difference in that decisive period as USC survived the challenge from the Lancers in a 91-84 victory.
Evan Mobley showed his star power in his first USC basketball game
Mobley’s opening game with USC started early. The first points of his career doubled as the Trojans’ first of the season.
That didn't take long.
— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) November 26, 2020
First bucket of @evan_mobley7's USC career!
?: @Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/jtamKAg3D8
It wasn’t long before Mobley supplied the first all-caps-worthy highlight.
Alley-oop @evan_mobley7 alllll day long.
— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) November 26, 2020
?: @Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/NwyOsqtggA
It wasn’t just Evan doing the Mobley name proud. Brothers Evan and Isaiah combined to form USC’s primary offensive attack. Isaiah finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds and one block.
Evan dished the first of what should be many Mobley-to-Mobley assists for the Trojans in the first half.
Brother to brother!@evan_mobley7 ↗️ @MobleyIsaiah
— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) November 26, 2020
?: @Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/UNdR1WQsj2
The younger Mobley proved he could come through when USC needs him most as well. His contributions in overtime were hugely important.
Coming through in the clutch!
— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) November 26, 2020
? @evan_mobley7 ?
?: @Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/dzpUQY4dIN
Even though USC got big contributions from both Mobley’s, California Baptist came to play. The Lancers made a living from behind the arc, hitting 20 three-pointers at a rate of 48.8 percent.
CBU was so devastating from three-point range, they took a lead over the Trojans in the waning minutes of the game. USC had to fight back to force overtime with a Tahj Eaddy triple to tie near the end of regulation. The Santa Clara transfer was also making his debut for USC. He was second among Trojans with 18 points and four assists.
As far as opening games for USC, it wasn’t pretty at all. At the very least, the early showing from Mobley was extremely promising. He should only get better from here.