USC enters the 2026–27 season with renewed expectations and one of the nation's most intriguing reconstructed rosters.
Following an 18–14 campaign, head coach Eric Musselman has assembled a collection of returning talent, experienced transfers and promising newcomers.
The Trojans begin our S³ countdown at No. 19, carrying expectations of returning to the NCAA Tournament.
Rice Leads the Way
Senior guard Rodney Rice gives USC an experienced offensive leader, while sophomore Alijah Arenas offers tremendous scoring potential.
The addition of KJ Lewis and Jacob Cofie provides additional experience, depth and versatility.
But assembling talent and building a winning basketball team are two different challenges.
Musselman must establish chemistry, defensive consistency and a reliable rotation.
Six Games Against Preseason-Ranked Opponents
USC faces six regular-season matchups against five teams in the official AP Preseason Top 25.
Their average ranked opponent sits at No. 14.7.
Texas Tech, Michigan State, Michigan, Illinois and two meetings with UCLA provide the Trojans with plenty of opportunities to establish their national credentials.
Can USC Win the Big Ten?
A conference championship is unlikely based on preseason expectations.
Illinois, Michigan State and Michigan enter the season as stronger projected contenders.
USC has the personnel to make a move, but the Trojans must establish consistency before entering the championship conversation.
S³ Season Projection
- Proposed Record: 22–10
- Expected NCAA Finish: Round of 32
- Ceiling: Sweet 16
- Possible: First-round elimination
- Possible: Miss NCAA Tournament
- Best Player: Rodney Rice
- X-Factor: Alijah Arenas
S³ Final Word
USC has enough individual talent to become a dangerous opponent, but its reconstructed roster must prove it can win consistently.
The Round of 32 represents our preseason expectation. A Sweet 16 appearance would be a successful overachievement.
S³ Prediction: 22–10 | Round of 32 | Sweet 16 Ceiling.
