USC basketball makes a splash with 2 massive commits for Eric Musselman

The USC men’s basketball program made a major recruiting statement this week, landing commitments from twin brothers Darius Ratliff and Adonis Ratliff. Sharing more than just a last name, the Ratliff twins bring a unique family connection to the Trojans’ roster.

Hailing from White Plains, New York, the Ratliff twins chose USC over other prominent programs, including Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisville. Each brother took just two official visits, one to USC and the other to Alabama. They mark the first commitments for head coach Eric Musselman’s 2026 recruiting class.

Darius Ratliff is a big-time get for USC basketball

Listed as a center, Darius Ratliff stands just shy of seven feet tall and carries an athletic 210 pounds. Ranked as the nation’s fifth-best center and 52nd prospect overall, he has the potential to contribute from Day 1 and become a cornerstone of USC’s frontcourt.

Darius Ratliff is a formidable presence in the paint, capable of blocking and altering shots, but he also possesses the agility to step out onto the wing and defend quicker guards and versatile power forwards when needed. He is currently the No. 3 prospect in New York for his class.

Adonis Ratliff is excited for his future with USC basketball with his brother

Adonis Ratliff, matching his twin’s height, is listed as a power forward. With a composite recruiting score of 98, he is ranked 62nd overall in the country and among the Top 10 at his position. Often regarded as the more skilled of the twins, he can stretch the floor as a threat from beyond the 3-point line.

He combines impressive athleticism with elite leaping ability, though he tends to avoid physical battles, which likely contributes to his preference for the forward position rather than anchoring as a center. He is currently the No. 5 prospect in New York.

These two commitments have propelled USC to No. 19 nationally in the 2026 team rankings and No. 5 in the Big Ten. The Ratliff twins are the sons of former Wyoming Cowboy and NBA veteran Theo Ratliff, who spent five seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers during his 16-year professional career.