In a gripping encounter on March 15, 2025, the University of Southern California (USC) edged out Troy University with a narrow victory of 107-106 after three exhilarating overtimes. The game, held at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, showcased remarkable performances from both teams, but it was USC’s late-game resilience that ultimately secured the win.
The contest began with both teams evenly matched, resulting in a halftime score of 29-29. As the clock ran down, USC and Troy exchanged leads, with pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. USC’s Baker-Mazara emerged as a standout player, scoring an impressive 34 points and making crucial free throws in the final moments, converting 11 of 12 attempts.
In addition to Baker-Mazara’s stellar performance, Rice contributed significantly with 26 points and seven assists. The duo’s efforts were complemented by Coo.Campbell of Troy, who recorded a double-double with 32 points and 12 rebounds, demonstrating his prowess on both ends of the court.
As the first two overtime periods unfolded, tension escalated with each possession. Both teams fought hard, but it was USC’s ability to capitalize on free throws that ultimately made the difference. The Trojans shot 25 of 35 from the charity stripe, while Troy managed a slightly better 34 of 46.
The final moments of the third overtime saw Troy’s leading scorer, Ausar, fouling out, leaving Troy without one of its key players. Despite the setback, Troy managed to keep the pressure on, but USC’s defense held strong in the closing seconds, sealing the victory.
Throughout the game, the teams exhibited impressive three-point shooting. USC made 9 of 29 attempts, while Troy found success with 11 of 32. The standout for Troy from beyond the arc was Coo.Campbell, who hit 6 of 9 attempts, showcasing his shooting skills that kept his team in contention.
The matchup also highlighted the physical nature of college basketball, with a combined total of 59 fouls called throughout the game. This intensity led to multiple players fouling out, impacting both teams’ strategies in crucial moments.
As the dust settles from this thrilling triple-overtime clash, both USC and Troy will reflect on the highs and lows of the game. The victory bolsters USC’s standing as they prepare for upcoming challenges, while Troy will look to regroup and build on their competitive spirit demonstrated throughout this closely contested match.
This nail-biting encounter not only entertained fans but also underscored the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where any game can turn into a memorable spectacle.
