February 17, 2025 - 00:59
The Trojans fell to the Gophers at Galen Center, dealing a major blow to their NCAA Tournament hopes. In a game that was anticipated to bolster their standings, USC struggled to find their rhythm against a Minnesota team that capitalized on every opportunity.
From the opening tip-off, the Gophers displayed a strong offensive strategy, quickly taking control of the game. Despite the Trojans' efforts to rally, they faced challenges on both ends of the court. Defensive lapses allowed Minnesota to exploit mismatches, leading to easy baskets that widened the gap.
As the game progressed, the Trojans' frustrations mounted, evident in their inability to execute plays effectively. The crowd at the Galen Center, once filled with hope, grew quieter as the Gophers maintained their lead. This loss not only impacts USC's current season but also raises questions about their trajectory heading into the final stretch of games. With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Trojans must regroup and refocus if they hope to salvage their postseason ambitions.
