Image Courtesy of Sports Illustrated
NORMAL, Ill. — Coming off their first win of the season against Cornell in the home opener, Illinois State traveled to Englewood, California, looking to carry some momentum into a tough matchup with USC. The Redbirds hung around through much of the first half, but the Trojans eventually took control and pulled away for an 87–67 win Friday night.
Entering the matchup, ISU knew it needed to shoot efficiently and compete on the glass against a USC team bolstered by several high-profile transfers. The Redbirds struggled from the field, shooting just 34 percent overall and 22 percent from beyond the arc. Despite winning the rebounding battle, ISU couldn’t slow down USC’s offense, which finished the night shooting 51 percent.
Freshman Ty’Reek Coleman and junior Johnny Kinziger led the Redbirds with 15 points apiece. Coleman added three rebounds and two assists, while junior Chase Walker paced Illinois State on the boards with nine rebounds.
One of the biggest factors in the game was turnovers. USC dominated that category, forcing 11 Redbird turnovers while committing only four of its own — allowing the Trojans to maximize their possessions and maintain control.
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