UCLA, USC Set for First Meeting Since Big Ten Switch

The historic rivalry between UCLA and USC takes on a new dimension Monday as the two programs meet for the first time as Big Ten Conference foes. Both teams enter the matchup with momentum, setting the stage for an intense clash at the Galen Center in Los Angeles.

Bruins Build Momentum After Midseason Struggles

UCLA (14-6, 5-4 Big Ten) has turned things around after enduring a four-game losing streak. The Bruins come into Monday’s game riding a three-game winning streak, including a thrilling 85-83 victory over No. 18 Wisconsin and a hard-fought 65-60 win at Washington.

Key to UCLA’s resurgence has been the play of big man Aday Mara, who has emerged as a force off the bench. After posting a career-high 22 points against Wisconsin, Mara added 12 points and seven rebounds in the win at Washington.

“Aday is a monster, and I’m glad people are starting to see that,” said teammate Dylan Andrews.

Andrews has also elevated his play in recent games. After being called out by head coach Mick Cronin, the former team-leading scorer has responded with consistent contributions, including a clutch late-game three-pointer at Washington.

USC Thrives Under New Leadership

In its first season under head coach Eric Musselman, USC (12-7, 4-4 Big Ten) has undergone significant roster changes. The Trojans are led by guard Desmond Claude, who has been a revelation this season, averaging 16.3 points per game.

Claude was instrumental in USC’s recent 78-73 win at Nebraska, scoring 21 points and dishing out six second-half assists. His ability to adapt to defensive pressure and involve his teammates has been a cornerstone of the Trojans’ offense.

“The defense was loading up on him, and he had to trust his teammates,” Musselman said. “He ended up getting six assists in the second half, which was huge.”

Claude’s playmaking, alongside Saint Thomas’ 4.1 assists per game, fuels a USC offense that thrives when scoring in high volumes. The Trojans are undefeated (12-0) when scoring at least 75 points but have yet to win a game (0-7) when failing to hit that mark.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Aday Mara vs. USC’s Frontcourt: Mara’s recent surge will be tested by a USC defense tasked with containing his interior presence.
• Desmond Claude vs. UCLA’s Backcourt: Claude’s ability to score and facilitate will be pivotal against a UCLA backcourt led by Dylan Andrews and Kobe Johnson.
• USC’s Scoring Threshold: Can UCLA’s defense hold the Trojans under 75 points, a mark that has dictated USC’s success this season?

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A Game of Personal and Conference Stakes

For UCLA’s Kobe Johnson, Monday marks a return to the Galen Center, where he spent three seasons with the Trojans before transferring. Meanwhile, both teams aim to solidify their standings in a competitive Big Ten race.

With UCLA surging and USC thriving under a revamped roster, this matchup promises to be a fierce battle between two programs eager to assert their dominance in the conference.