Usc Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers Picks and Predictions January 18th 2025

No. 24 Wisconsin takes surge into L.A. to face USC

The No. 24 Wisconsin Badgers (14-3, 4-2 Big Ten) head to Los Angeles riding a six-game winning streak, their longest of the season. As they gear up to face the USC Trojans (11-6, 3-3) in a West Coast clash, both teams carry momentum from recent victories and are looking to solidify their postseason credentials. Wisconsin’s improved offense meets USC’s resurging form, setting the stage for an exciting battle.

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Wisconsin Badgers: A Team on the Rise

Wisconsin’s turnaround has been remarkable this season. After an 0-2 start in Big Ten play, the Badgers have reeled off four straight conference wins. Their ability to adapt and perform under pressure, even when shots don’t fall, has been a cornerstone of their success.

Improved Offensive Prowess

Wisconsin’s offense is producing at a level not seen in recent years. With 82.4 points per game (34th nationally), the Badgers have evolved from their traditionally defense-focused identity into a well-rounded scoring machine. This marks a significant leap from previous seasons, including 74.7 points in 2022-23 and 65.3 in 2021-22.

Key contributors to this offensive surge include:

• John Tonje: Leading the team with 18.2 points per game.
• John Blackwell: Averaging 15.4 points, he provides a reliable second scoring option.
• Steven Crowl, Nolan Winter, and Max Klesmit: Each averages over 10 points per game, rounding out a balanced attack.

Resilience Under Pressure

Tuesday’s narrow 70-68 win over Ohio State showcased Wisconsin’s grit. Despite shooting just 41.7% from the floor and an abysmal 22.7% from three-point range, the Badgers held off a second-half surge. Steven Crowl’s comments highlight the team’s mental toughness:

“It’s the sign of a good team when the shots aren’t falling or you’re facing foul trouble, but you still find a way to win.”

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USC Trojans: Offensive Resurgence

USC enters Saturday’s matchup with newfound confidence after two impressive wins, including a dominant 99-89 victory over Iowa. The Trojans are peaking at the right time, led by their most dynamic offensive performances of the season.

Offensive Firepower

The Trojans’ recent success stems from improved ball movement and diverse scoring options. Head coach Eric Musselman has opened up the playbook, resulting in USC’s scoring average climbing to 77.5 points per game. This offensive efficiency was on full display against Iowa, where the Trojans shot an astonishing 64.9% from the field.

Key players include:

• Desmond Claude: Leading the team with 16.4 points per game, Claude has been the spark plug of the offense, scoring 31 and 25 points in his last two games.
• Saint Thomas and Wesley Yates III: Both are consistent scoring threats, contributing 24 and 21 points, respectively, in the Iowa win.

The Role of Ball Movement

USC’s offense thrives on teamwork. With 59.7% of their made field goals coming from assists (39th nationally, per KenPom), the Trojans prioritize unselfish play. Thomas (4.1 assists per game) and Claude (4.2 assists per game) have been instrumental in orchestrating the offense.

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Key Matchup Dynamics: Wisconsin vs. USC

This game pits two teams with contrasting styles and strengths against each other.

Offensive Contrast

• Wisconsin: Balanced scoring and newfound offensive firepower.
• USC: High-octane offense built on ball movement and dynamic playmakers.

Defensive Challenges

• Wisconsin has shown vulnerability in maintaining large leads, as seen against Ohio State. Consistent defensive execution will be crucial.
• USC, despite its offensive resurgence, has allowed opponents to score heavily, with Iowa putting up 89 points.

Coaching Impact

• Wisconsin’s Greg Gard, fresh off his 200th career win, has guided the Badgers with a steady hand and a focus on fundamentals.
• Eric Musselman’s tactical adjustments have reinvigorated USC, making them a dangerous opponent.

Players to Watch

1. John Tonje (Wisconsin): The Badgers’ scoring leader has been the engine behind their offensive success.
2. Desmond Claude (USC): With back-to-back standout performances, Claude’s ability to score and facilitate will be key.
3. Steven Crowl (Wisconsin): His resilience and leadership in clutch moments make him a pivotal figure.
4. Saint Thomas (USC): A versatile playmaker, Thomas’ contributions extend beyond scoring with his assists and court vision.

What’s at Stake

For Wisconsin, this matchup is an opportunity to continue their upward trajectory and assert their dominance in the Big Ten’s first foray into California. For USC, a win against a ranked opponent would solidify their resurgence and enhance their postseason prospects.

Conclusion

The Wisconsin-USC clash promises to be a high-stakes, entertaining showdown. With the Badgers’ balanced scoring and USC’s offensive resurgence, the game is poised to be a closely contested battle. Key performances from stars like Desmond Claude and John Tonje, combined with strategic adjustments from the sidelines, will likely determine the outcome. Both teams have a lot to gain, making this a must-watch game for college basketball fans.