30 Facts About USC Basketball

History of USC Basketball

USC Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. Here are some fascinating facts about the team's journey through the years.

1. USC's basketball program began in 1906, making it one of the oldest in the country. The team has been competing for over a century.

2. The Trojans have made 19 NCAA Tournament appearances. Their first appearance was in 1940, and they have been a consistent presence in the tournament ever since.

3. USC reached the Final Four in 1954. This remains one of the most significant achievements in the program's history.

4. The team has won 14 conference championships. These titles highlight the Trojans' dominance in their conference over the years.

5. USC's home games are played at the Galen Center. This state-of-the-art arena opened in 2006 and has a seating capacity of 10,258.

Legendary Players

USC has produced numerous basketball legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here are some of the most notable players.

6. Bill Sharman, a USC alumnus, is a Hall of Famer. He played for the Trojans in the 1940s before going on to a successful NBA career.

7. Paul Westphal, another USC great, was a five-time NBA All-Star. He played for the Trojans in the early 1970s and later became a successful coach.

8. Harold Miner, known as "Baby Jordan," was a standout player in the early 1990s. He won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest twice during his professional career.

9. DeMar DeRozan, a current NBA star, played for USC in the 2008-2009 season. He has since become one of the league's top scorers.

10. Nick Young, also known as "Swaggy P," played for USC from 2004 to 2007. He has had a long and colorful NBA career.

Memorable Moments

USC Basketball has had its share of unforgettable moments that fans still talk about today. Here are some highlights.

11. In 2001, USC reached the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. This was their deepest run in the tournament in decades.

12. The Trojans defeated UCLA in 2011 to win the Pac-10 Tournament. This victory secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament.

13. USC upset the highly-ranked Arizona Wildcats in 2018. This win was a significant boost for the program.

14. In 2021, USC made it to the Elite Eight once again. This run included a dominant victory over Kansas.

15. The Trojans have had several players drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft. This includes O.J. Mayo, DeMar DeRozan, and Evan Mobley.

Coaching Legends

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a basketball program. USC has been fortunate to have some of the best.

16. Sam Barry, who coached from 1929 to 1950, is a Hall of Famer. He is credited with popularizing the fast break in basketball.

17. George Raveling, who coached from 1986 to 1994, was the first African-American head coach in the Pac-10. He is also a Hall of Famer.

18. Tim Floyd led the Trojans to three NCAA Tournament appearances. His tenure from 2005 to 2009 was marked by significant success.

19. Andy Enfield, the current head coach, has revitalized the program. He led the team to the Elite Eight in 2021.

20. Bob Boyd, who coached from 1967 to 1979, is remembered for his innovative strategies. He led the Trojans to several successful seasons.

Rivalries

Rivalries add excitement and intensity to the game. USC has some fierce rivalries that always draw attention.

21. The USC-UCLA rivalry is one of the most intense in college basketball. Games between these two teams are always highly anticipated.

22. USC also has a heated rivalry with Arizona. These matchups often have significant implications for conference standings.

23. The Trojans' rivalry with Stanford is another notable one. These games are always competitive and exciting.

24. USC's games against Oregon are also highly competitive. Both teams have a history of strong performances.

25. The Trojans have a budding rivalry with Arizona State. This rivalry has grown in intensity in recent years.

Fan Culture

USC Basketball has a passionate fan base that supports the team through thick and thin. Here are some facts about the fans and their traditions.

26. The Trojan Marching Band is a staple at USC games. Their performances add to the electric atmosphere.

27. The student section, known as the "Trojan Fever," is always loud and energetic. They play a crucial role in creating a home-court advantage.

28. USC fans have a tradition of wearing cardinal and gold to games. This creates a sea of school colors in the stands.

29. The Galen Center is known for its enthusiastic crowds. Fans pack the arena for big games, creating an intimidating environment for opponents.

30. USC's mascot, Traveler, makes appearances at basketball games. This adds to the unique atmosphere of Trojan basketball.

Final Whistle on USC Basketball Facts

USC basketball's rich history and vibrant present make it a fascinating subject. From its early days to recent triumphs, the Trojans have consistently made waves on the court. Key players like O.J. Mayo and DeMar DeRozan have left lasting legacies, while the team's rivalry with UCLA keeps fans on the edge of their seats. The Galen Center, their home turf, has witnessed countless memorable moments. USC's commitment to excellence is evident in their numerous NCAA tournament appearances and Pac-12 titles. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's always something new to learn about this storied program. Keep an eye on the Trojans; their journey is far from over. With a blend of tradition and innovation, USC basketball continues to captivate and inspire. Stay tuned for more exciting chapters in their ongoing saga.