USC Survives Troy Overtime Thriller 77-76

The Ultimate Trojan Showdown: USC vs. Troy

In a clash that had everything—drama, resilience, and overtime—the USC men's basketball team narrowly escaped with a 77-76 victory over the Troy Trojans from Alabama on November 20, 2025. The game at the Galen Center was far from a routine contest, as Troy, fresh off a historic double-overtime upset of then-No. 26 San Diego State, proved they were no mere cupcake. This battle between two teams named Trojans delivered college basketball at its most thrilling.

Troy's Historic Momentum

Troy entered this matchup riding an emotional high. Just days prior, they'd secured one of the most impressive wins in program history, defeating San Diego State 108-107 in double-overtime—a game ranked as the sixth-largest upset of the season by KenPom. That victory showcased Troy's resilience, as they rallied from deficits in both overtime periods behind star forward Thomas Dowd's 25-point, 19-rebound masterpiece. This was Troy's highest-ranked win in the KenPom era, and their confidence was sky-high despite playing on the second leg of a grueling four-game California road trip.

USC's Offensive Firepower

Meanwhile, USC (3-0) boasted one of the nation's most explosive offenses. Led by transfers Rodney Rice (Maryland) and Chad Baker-Mazara (Auburn)—both averaging 18.7 points—and freshman Ezra Ausar (17.0 points), the Trojans had scored 87+ points in every game. USC's depth was undeniable, with at least four players reaching double figures in each contest. However, their defensive lapses and inability to close out games would be tested by Troy's gritty approach.

A Game of Runs and Momentum Shifts

The contest was a see-saw battle from tip-off. USC built an early lead but allowed Troy to claw back behind their aggressive defense and offensive rebounding. Troy limited USC to just 3-of-11 shooting from beyond the arc in the first half while dominating the glass with 15 offensive rebounds. The Trojans from Alabama fought through fatigue, using scrappy plays and timely buckets to keep pace.

USC stretched an 11-point lead to 54-43 in the second half, but Troy answered with a 9-2 run, making it a one-possession game. As regulation expired, Troy's Cooper Campbell hit a clutch 3-pointer with eight seconds left to force overtime, sending the Galen Center into stunned silence.

Overtime Drama

In the extra period, both teams traded blows. USC took a 75-70 lead with 1:55 left but lost focus, allowing Troy to tie it at 75-75. With 19 seconds remaining, Troy took a 76-75 lead on a layup but made a critical error: attempting a 3-pointer when they only needed a 2. USC's Jacob Cofie split free throws on the other end, sealing the 77-76 victory in a heart-stopping finish.

Key Performances

For USC, Rice and Baker-Mazara led with 18 points each, while Ausar contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds. Troy was fueled by Dowd's relentless effort and Campbell's 15 points. Troy's defensive intensity was noteworthy, ranking 17th nationally in steals (11.8 per game) and showcasing why they could compete with Power Five programs.

What's Next?

USC will look to improve their focus and closing ability as they prepare for tougher Big Ten tests. Troy, now 4-2, heads to Florida for the Coconut Hoops event, carrying momentum from their back-to-back thrilling games. Despite the loss, Troy's performance against USC and SDSU proves they're a dangerous mid-major capable of pulling surprises.

This game was a testament to college basketball's unpredictability—a reminder that no opponent should be underestimated. For USC, it was a hard-fought win that exposed room for growth. For Troy, it was another statement that they're a team to be reckoned with.