This past week, the basketball world witnessed impressive displays from athletes affiliated with the University of Southern California, spanning both collegiate and professional leagues. On the women's college side, two guards consistently delivered exceptional performances, even in the face of challenging game outcomes. For the men's team, a key player emerged as a dominant force, guiding them to a significant win. Meanwhile, in the National Basketball Association, several former USC stars demonstrated their continued prowess, contributing significantly to their respective teams' efforts.
In collegiate women's basketball, Jazzy Davidson, a rising freshman, continued to build on her already remarkable season. Despite a loss to Minnesota, Davidson recorded 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks, showcasing her all-around game. In a preceding contest, her statistical line was equally impressive, with 14 points, 13 assists, and 4 steals. Her consistent impact is undeniable, regardless of the final score. Complementing Davidson's efforts, Kara Dunn delivered a superstar-caliber performance during a tough loss for the Trojans. She led all scorers with 27 points and was a defensive powerhouse with 6 steals. Her coach undoubtedly noted her ability to elevate her play in high-stakes situations. In the game before this defeat, Dunn also registered a 20-point, 9-rebound outing against Oregon. While the team faced setbacks, the talent on the roster, particularly among their guards, offers strong prospects for future tournament success.
On the men's college basketball court, Chad Baker-Mazara has become the driving force behind the Trojans' impressive start to the season. In a thrilling victory, Baker-Mazara tallied 29 points and 8 assists. Averaging close to 20 points per game, he is a primary reason for the team's 13-3 record. As the conference schedule intensifies, his leadership and consistent high-level play will be crucial in their pursuit of a tournament berth and success within the Big Ten.
Moving to the NBA, several former Trojans left their mark. Demar DeRozan, despite his team's struggles, reminded everyone of his enduring talent by scoring 20 points in each of his team's three games this past week. He remains an elite scorer capable of impacting winning teams. Evan Mobley appears to be hitting his stride, delivering strong performances with 24 points and 2 steals against the Timberwolves, and at least 19 points in the two prior games. His improved play contributed to his team's 2-1 record last week, proving their potential when he's at his best. Nikola Vučević excelled on the boards, grabbing 15, 16, and 12 rebounds in three recent games, including a win over the Mavericks. While perhaps no longer an All-Star, his consistent rebounding and scoring (at least 15 points in his last three outings) demonstrate his continued value to his team. Finally, De'Anthony Melton stepped up for the Warriors, providing significant scoring off the bench with 19 and 22-point performances in two of his last three games. His consistent contributions make him a vital rotational player, and if he can maintain his health, he could become a long-term asset for the Warriors.
This week's basketball action highlighted the widespread influence of USC-affiliated players. From collegiate standouts making their mark to NBA veterans continuing to perform at a high level, the talent pipeline from the university remains strong. These athletes' dedication and skill promise an exciting future for USC basketball at all levels of the game.