USC’s men’s basketball team returned home to the Galen Center after a week of uncertainty and anxiety due to wildfires ravaging their city. The team had been stuck in hotels in Indiana and Illinois, with players worried about their homes and families. Despite the stress, they managed to secure a historic road win over a ranked team before returning to Los Angeles.
Upon their return, the Trojans found solace in a 99-89 victory over Iowa, where they shot an impressive 65% from the floor and outrebounded their opponents by 17. Freshman Wesley Yates III led the team with a career-high 21 points, showcasing his impact on the offense since being inserted into the starting lineup.
However, as Iowa mounted a comeback in the second half, Yates missed two critical free throws. But the team’s resolve and cohesion were evident as they rallied together during a timeout to secure the win. Desmond Claude and Saint Thomas also played pivotal roles in closing out the game, with Claude scoring a team-high 25 points and Thomas adding 24 points.
Despite the challenges faced during the week, including concerns about their homes and families, the Trojans showed resilience and determination in their victory over Iowa. The team’s evolution and growth were evident in their performance, giving fans hope for more success in the future. With two consecutive Big Ten wins under their belt, USC is on an upward trajectory as they continue to improve and build chemistry on the court.
Source
Photo credit www.latimes.com
