URGENT UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, the University of Southern California (USC) triumphed over Troy in a dramatic 107-106 victory that spanned three overtimes on November 16, 2023, in Los Angeles. Chad Baker-Mazara delivered a stellar performance, scoring a career-high 34 points, while Jordan Marsh clinched the win with a buzzer-beating 3-pointer.
This thrilling matchup saw Troy, fresh off a 108-107 double-overtime victory against San Diego State just days prior, leading through much of the third overtime. However, a critical turnover changed the game. With just ten seconds remaining, Troy mishandled the ball, allowing USC’s Rodney Rice to seize the opportunity. He quickly passed to Marsh, who executed a near-impossible shot to seal the victory.
Rice also contributed significantly to USC’s success, scoring 26 points and dishing out nine assists. Ezra Ausar added 22 points to the team’s total. Despite being out-rebounded 63-39, including a staggering 25-7 on the offensive boards, USC showcased resilience that kept them undefeated at 4-0.
Troy’s Cooper Campbell was a standout performer, scoring a career-high 32 points and making ten points in the tense third overtime. He also recorded 12 rebounds and 8 assists. Campbell’s clutch 3-pointer with just 7.8 seconds left in regulation forced the first overtime, leveling the score at 68.
Throughout the game, both teams battled fiercely, with 15 lead changes in the first half, which ended tied at 29. As the game progressed, neither team could establish dominance, maintaining a rollercoaster of excitement for fans.
The tension escalated when USC’s Baker-Mazara scored eight points in the second overtime, bringing the score to a nail-biting 89 before Troy tied it again, pushing the game into a third overtime.
This unforgettable contest highlights the fierce competition in college basketball, as both teams demonstrated skill and determination. USC’s next challenge will be crucial as they aim to maintain their perfect record.
Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling season unfolds.
