A classic in state, rivalry between USC & California Berkley, provided an glimpse into the strengths, and ultimate needs of progress, between both programs, who are looking for an identity, given the amount of talent and coaching going into this year. With both programs looking to exceed expectations, and compete, in their respective conferences, this Power 4 Conference matchup brought forth a lot of takeaways on the on how the Trojans could ultimately use their high energy, and 3 point shooting, offense to be their biggest advantage going forward into the season, if they can sustain it throughout the course of a game. As for the Golden Bears, they showed liveliness on the defensive end as they displayed a more physical type of game, which could help them with the shooting from range.
This was a fun matchup overall due to how close the game was from start, to finish. Both teams scoring the same amount of points in the paint and beyond the arc, almost identically, by volume and field goal percentage, in their own playstyles. However, the the 3 point scoring from the Trojans was not as strong as it was in the first half, and with the added interior defense & pressure from the Golden Bears in the second half as well, the game ultimately fell towards the victory of the Golden Bears.
Below are observations on the main standouts of the game live from the Galen Center, on the campus of the University of Southern California:
Andrej Stojaković || California || F 6'7” || Sophomore ||
Although the shooting was not on display for Stankovic for this game, his overall performance, has showed his refined game, since his freshman campaign. His ability to push the pace in transition through scoring downhill himself or using the high Pick & Roll to get to the rim, was impressive considering his tall frame. He was able to slice through defenders, to find lanes to drive into tight windows, and although the touch around the rim was a bit too soft, at times, his ability to absorb contact and play through fouls, led to him to the line six times, over the course of the game where he was 6-6 from the free throw. His athleticism and smooth playstyle make him all the more interesting to continue to watch this season, as his knack for playing in transition, and his, quick, long stride plus lateral quickness to move so gracefully to contest shots at the rim and from closeouts, shows he has several tools to further become a more dominant point forward.
Desmond Claude || USC || SF 6'6” || Junior ||
The Xavier transfer, had quite a game, as he was able to display his confidence in his shooting ability, and nose for getting to his preferred spots on the court, from the nail, above the key, and high/middle post, his displayed awareness of shot selection was very impressive, as he was able to be the more efficient scorer on the court. He did well at drawing fouls at the rim, however, he did not show any ability to have much finishing at the rim, in terms of physicality, athleticism, nor layup package. Defensively was sound, as he displayed the ability to deny guards, and wings, with the IQ to switch when needed, and footwork to keep up in front of drives to the basket, and use of his length to contest attempted drives. Has the makings of a true wing with ball handling capabilities.
Jovan Blacksher, Jr. || California || PG 5'11” || Grad ||
Even with being the shortest player on the court, Blacksher, had a stellar evening with an absurd 57% 3pt FG% on seven attempts. The transfer guard from Grand Canyon, was the driving force behind the offense of Cal's first half, giving them all the firepower needed to stay on pace with USC, coming up big with a silencing 3 point shot, as the clock winded down in the final seconds of the first half, bringing the Golden Bears within 1 point of the Trojans. Will be interesting to see if Blacksher can continue to be the 3 point specialist catalyst that his team needs him to be for the rest of the season, if he can sustain the production and efficiency of this evening.
Terrance Williams II || USC || SG 6'7” || Grad ||
Well it could be said that Williams had an "unassuming" night, he did play his part in being the second three point scoring option for the Trojans, by hitting two 3 point shots, out of 5 attempts through the game. His confidence beyond the arc, and his ability to be able to shoot of the dribble, to get to a better spot, or to bait the defenders jump, showed he has more skill than meets the eye. He also displayed physicality down low in the post as he was able to outmuscle traffic for defensive rebounds, and had good timing on the jump to snag them out of the air.
Saint Thomas || USC || F 6'7” || Senior ||
The Trojans leading scorer of the evening, was able to make some tough, face-up, shots in the paint, using his handle, and brute strength to will his way to his spots by the rim. Although the collegiate journeyman was not on an efficient streak from shooting, he made his presence known in his defensive efforts that showed he has a unique combination of length, active hands, and long & quick lateral movement. He showed willingness to switch on defensive assignments, and create turnovers when guarding drives. If he can continue to hone in his defensive skillset, and become a more consistent shooter, he can become a great secondary faciliatory to this Trojan team
Written by: Connor Lee
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