USC men's basketball leans on Alijah Arenas to get back on the tournament bubble

USC came out victorious in a must-win game against Indiana, taking the win 81-75. The Trojans extended their winning streak to three and now sit at 17-6 on the season and 6-6 in conference play. Leading the way was Alijah Arenas, who scored a season and career-high 29 points.

Joining Arenas was transfer Kam Woods, a standout for the Trojans since arriving at the start of the new year. His 18 points ranked second on the team for the night and was crucial as the Trojans once again battled through a close game down the stretch. Woods was so vital that he played all but 26 seconds of the game.

Arenas paces Trojans in huge conference win

The Trojans had a strong night at the free throw line, hitting 80% overall and an impressive 88% in the second half. Turnovers were still an issue, with 15 in the game, but they made up for it by dominating the boards, out-rebounding the Hoosiers 40-25. That big margin translated into 15 second-chance points and helped them protect their home court advantage.

The Trojans were in control for most of the night, holding leads ranging from one to 14 points before Indiana made a push. USC has been outstanding at home this season, and their 9-3 record at the Galen Center proves they can take care of business in games they’re expected to win.

The Trojans have eight games left in the regular season and will now hit the road to face Penn State and Ohio State. Both are winnable matchups, but Ohio State will be a tough challenge. USC is currently projected as one of the last four teams in the NCAA Tournament, which would mean a play-in game as an 11-seed. Each win from here on out boosts their chances of avoiding that extra hurdle.

The Trojans return to action on Feb. 8 to face Penn State, with tip-off set for 9 a.m. PT (12 p.m. ET).