The USC Trojans played host to UC Irvine on Tuesday night. They took the court in the absence of two of their star performers, Boogie Ellis and Kobe Johnson, at the Galen Center. Both players sat out following their respective injuries. As a result, their outstanding guard Isaiah Collier had plenty on his plate.
The USC, however, were still looking to avoid a disappointing loss on their home turf. With Bronny James on the bench, the Trojans were shorthanded, facing a tough challenge.
Justin Hohn steals the spotlight
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UC’s Justin Hohn spoiled the party for the home team as he decimated the Trojans with ease. The powerful guard stormed past the defense of the home team and gave an edge-of-the-seat performance. Following this, he put UC Irvine ahead contributing with 25 points and 4 rebounds at the end of the night. As a result, UC Irvine ended the night handing the Trojans their first defeat of the season. The final score read 70-60 in favor of the visiting team. The No.16 ranked Trojans were left clueless on the court as they had no answers for Hohn’s scintillating exhibition.
In addition to this, skipper Bent Leuchten also chipped in with valuable contributions. He was the second-highest scorer for the Anteaters along with 6 rebounds and 1 assist. The unranked UC Irvine Anteaters were in total control of the game from start to finish. Leading the home team 29-26 at halftime, they started the second half with a bang by scoring the first 7 points. Nonetheless, USC didn’t let the lead get out of their reach until Devin Tillis showed his magic in the final moments of the match. The talented forward 5 points in 3 minutes which included a 3-pointer with just under a minute to go.
After beating Oregon last season away from home, UC had created an upset by beating a ranked team for the fifth time in 49 games. Moreover, they also ended the Trojan’s unbeaten start to the NCAA tournament.
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What went wrong for USC Trojans?
The USC Trojans looked out of sorts throughout the game. They managed only 28.8 percent shots from the field and 19 percent from deep. In addition to this, they had 15 turnovers which was more than double of what UC Irvine had. Their superstar guard Isaiah Collier had a tough time in the middle as he could only land 6 of his 18 shots. Moreover, he committed 7 turnovers and was seen struggling to bring out his A-game.
Be that as it may, he was still their top performer ending his night on 23 points. The No.30 Harrison Hornery also showed some resistance as he scored 17 points. The USC Trojans need to put this defeat behind them and get back to winning ways. Fans will be hoping that Bronny James gets a taste of some action as he was seen dunking a few shots before the game.
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What are your thoughts on the Trojans’ loss? Share with us in the comments section.
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