The USC Trojans men’s basketball team officially announced their full schedule for the 2026-27 season on Wednesday, marking their continued journey in the Big Ten. This will be the third season under head coach Eric Musselman, who has expectations for a successful run toward the NCAA Tournament, aided by a strong recruiting class and key returning players like Rodney Rice, Alijah Areans, and Jacob Cofie, as well as notable transfers.
Read More
Coach Musselman has posted a 35-32 record during his tenure, but last season ended disappointing with the Trojans finishing 18-14 overall and 7-13 in Big Ten play. Their performance led to missing the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year.
Key highlights of the schedule include home games against the Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans at the Galen Center. Last season, the Trojans faced both teams on the road, suffering double-digit losses. The Trojans seek to turn the tide, especially against Michigan State, against whom they previously notched an upset at home. Michigan State returns star players like Jeremy Fears Jr. and Coen Carr, while also featuring key contributors under Coach Tom Izzo, including guards Jordan Scott and Kur Teng.
For the Wolverines, key guards Elliott Cadeau and Trey McKenney will look to maintain their competitive edge following their coach Dusty May's departure to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. USC aims to take advantage of any transitions as they face Michigan once again.
On the road, the Trojans will compete against the Illinois Fighting Illini and Purdue Boilermakers, both formidable teams in the Big Ten. Illinois is coming off their first Final Four appearance since 2005 and will remain under Coach Brad Underwood's leadership. Purdue is in a transition phase after losing star guard Braden Smith but remains a contender under Coach Matt Painter.
Additionally, USC's non-conference schedule presents several challenges. The Trojans will look to build on last season’s undefeated non-conference play, facing teams like the Wichita State Shockers, South Carolina Gamecocks, Utah State Aggies, and Texas Tech Red Raiders in neutral-site games. A noteworthy matchup includes a trip to the Bay Area on November 11 to face the California Golden Bears, and a December 13 showdown against the Red Raiders at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. Texas Tech had a successful previous season, making the NCAA Tournament and finishing with a 23-11 record.
With the potential for a successful season ahead, maintaining health throughout the roster will be crucial as the Trojans aspire for a spot in the tournament.