USC Reportedly Edges California 85-81

No. 21 USC defeated California 85-81 in Berkeley, earning a road win in an early-season matchup between former Pac-12 rivals now playing in different conferences. The Trojans improved to 3-0 after wins over Milwaukee and Wichita State, while the game tested a team widely viewed as capable of reaching the NCAA tournament’s Sweet 16. USC’s ambitions extend beyond merely making the tournament: coach Eric Musselman and the program face pressure to advance to the second weekend after underwhelming results in his first two seasons. Before the game, California was also unbeaten at home in the matchup and seeking a statement win; the teams had continued their rivalry as nonconference opponents after conference realignment.