A Recruiting Surge
The USC Trojans basketball program is targeting a return to the NCAA Tournament for the 2026‑27 season, building on a trajectory of steady improvement under head coach Eric Musselman, who is entering his third year with the team.
Last season the Trojans posted an 18‑14 overall record and a 7‑13 mark in Big Ten play, a modest improvement that set the stage for a more ambitious outlook.
Big Ten Battles
Central to the plan is a recruiting class that ranks No. 9 nationally, highlighted by five‑star forward Christian Collins and four‑star prospects Adonis Ratliff and Darius Ratliff, a group that also includes guard Alijah Arenas.
Musselman’s staff also secured the commitment of former Maryland standout Rodney Rice, adding depth to the backcourt.
Championship Odds
The Trojans will face stiff competition from traditional Big Ten powers such as Michigan, Michigan State, Illinois and Purdue, all of whom entered the recent tournament with deep runs and high rankings.
While the national championship odds sit at +4000, indicating a long‑shot prospect, the program’s upward trend under Musselman suggests that a postseason berth is increasingly within reach.
If the incoming talent gels with the returning core, USC could surprise analysts and carve out a new identity in the conference, positioning itself as a contender for future titles.