The University of Southern California’s men’s basketball program is charting a comeback after a turbulent 2025‑26 campaign that saw an eight‑game losing streak erase a promising 12‑1 start. With the preseason exhibition against North Carolina slated for October 9 at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro, the Trojans hope to test a roster that blends returning veterans with fresh talent.
Reviving the Trojan Spirit
Senior guard Rodney Rice, who transferred from Maryland in 2025, is expected to be a cornerstone of the revival. Rice burst onto the scene with a 20.3‑point average, six assists and 3.3 rebounds per game last season, highlighted by a rare triple‑double. After a right‑shoulder injury forced surgery and a season‑long absence, his full recovery has been confirmed, raising optimism that he can anchor the team’s attack.
Sophomore guard Alijah Arenas also returns from his own injury setback, though the two stars have yet to share the court this year. Their parallel comebacks add a narrative of resilience, while new recruit Eric Reibe, a UConn transfer, is working through foot surgery that has kept him off the practice floor.
Coaching Clash and NBA Roots
Head coach Eric Musselman brings NBA pedigree to the Pac‑12, having guided the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors before turning his attention to college basketball. He will square off against Michael Malone, UNC’s head coach and 2023 NBA champion, in the upcoming exhibition — a clash that underscores the growing NBA‑style emphasis on the matchup.
Beyond individual storylines, USC’s top‑10 recruiting class and a deep bench aim to restore the program’s former glory, targeting a return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2023. The excitement surrounding the team reflects a broader ambition to re‑establish the Trojans as a consistent contender in the Big Ten.
Exhibition Preview
The upcoming exhibition against North Carolina not only marks a reunion with a program that eliminated USC in the 2007 Sweet 16, but also serves as a litmus test for the Trojans’ chemistry and depth. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether the new‑look squad can translate preseason promise into regular‑season success.