USC men's basketball free-throw woes continue in disappointing conference loss

What was meant to be a celebratory night for Alijah Arenas’ USC debut turned disappointing as the Trojans fell short at home, losing 74-68 to Northwestern. The Trojans fall to 3-5 in conference play and 14-5 overall.

The Trojans’ struggles at the free throw line continued, hitting just 60% for the night. As a result, despite keeping the game close, USC never held a lead in the second half. Jordan Marsh led the scoring with 19 points, followed by Ezra Ausar with 17 and Chad Baker-Mazara with 14. Five-star Alijah Arenas made his season debut, contributing 8 points, two assists, and two rebounds.

Baker-Mazara got his 14 points in just 13 minutes as he was in foul trouble all game and eventually fouled out.

USC needs more discipline on defense to make NCAA Tournament

“As a staff, we’ve got to do a way, way better job teaching guys to defend without fouling. We were undisciplined," cioach Eric Musselman said. "I want to know how he fouls out. I’m not even disagreeing with the refs. I mean, that’s on Chad. He’s a sixth-year player."

"[Chad Baker-Mazara] had 14 points and he fouls out in 13 minutes. It’s unheard of."

USC coach Eric Musselman

USC’s offense has been solid for much of the season, especially during non-conference play, with only a few bumps along the way. Lately, though, they’ve struggled to close out games as their scoring has dipped. In the second half, the Trojans went 0-for-7 from three-point range and just 15% overall from deep on the night. Combine that with a rough 60% at the free-throw line, and it’s clear those numbers have been a big reason they’ve had trouble pulling out close wins recently.

USC sits 12th in the conference at 3-5, and while that’s not an ideal spot, their 14-5 overall record keeps them in the NCAA Tournament conversation. Still, dropping close games hasn’t helped, and the loss to a previously winless Northwestern team in the Big Ten hurts their resume. There’s no time to slowly work Arenas into the lineup. USC needs everyone contributing from here on out.

The Trojans will be back in action on Jan. 25, hitting the road to face Wisconsin. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. PT (4 p.m. ET) on Peacock.