The USC Trojans opened their campaign with a victory over the Kansas State Wildcats, claiming an 82-69 win in their season opener on Monday, November 6, at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada.
Fifth-year senior Boogie Ellis led the Trojans with 24 points and eight rebounds. After leading by as much as 19 in the second half, their lead dwindled to eight with only 1:41 remaining, yet USC managed to maintain their advantage and secure the win.
"We've got a lot of vets and people that are experienced and been through it. So we just stayed calm and came together," Ellis said.
Freshman guard Bronny James, highly anticipated by many, observed the game from the sidelines in casual attire, still recuperating from a frightening cardiac arrest he had experienced during a team practice last July.
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Consensus top recruit delivers exceptional debut
Freshman guard Isaiah Collier, the consensus top-ranked recruit for the 2023 class, delivered an impressive debut performance for the Trojans.
The 19-year-old put up 18 points, six assists, and three rebounds while shooting 7-of-9 from the field and 3-of-3 from the free-throw line. Fifteen of those were scored during the first half.
Collier received a standing ovation as he went to the bench after fouling out with 4:50 remaining in the game.
"I thought Isaiah played a great first half, first game on the big stage here in Las Vegas. I thought it was important for us to get out to a fast start," USC head coach Andy Enfield stated.
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