USC Trojans' Latest Injury News Could Shift Momentum vs. Oregon

Baker-Mazara and Arenas have emerged as two star players for USC is both their first seasons in Los Angeles. So far in Baker-Mazara's first season, he's averaging 18.3 points, three assists and 4.2 rebounds per game. As for Arenas, who's debut came late after recovering from a torn meniscus, he's averaging 14.3 points and 2.6 rebounds per games through just eight matchups.

Having Arenas in the picture has easily bolstered the Trojans performance, especially paired with a dynamic player like Baker-Mazara. The pairing's conjoined talent proved itself in recent wins over Indiana and Wisconsin. Now, the Trojans are unsure of both player's status, which could be a major disadvantage for the Trojans.

Baker-Mazara did not even appear on the bench against the Fighting Illini due to his injury. When coach Eric Musselman was asked about Baker-Mazara's absence, his answer was short and simple.

“He wasn’t available tonight,” Musselman said after the loss. “We’ll take it day-by-day.”

Baker-Mazara's immediate impact since coming to Los Angeles has brought a dual-threat as a offensive and defensive star. Arenas, the five-star freshman from Woodland Hills, California, quickly reminded Trojan fans of his skill, averaging 23 points over the span of three games. Now, the Trojans could potentially be without both of their star players come game time.

USC Trojans NCAA Tournament Hopes Are Slipping Away

Down to the wire with just five games left on USC's schedule, the Trojans look to make a late push and hopefully clinch an NCAA Tournament spot. However, the reality becomes less and less throughout the season.

Following a 40-point loss to No. 10 Illinois, the Trojans’ odds took a significant hit, now sitting at +150 per FanDuel Sportsbook. While Musselman is only in his second season leading USC, securing an NCAA Tournament bid would be a major opportunity for USC.

This season the Trojans are in a much stronger position to even be considered for a Tournamrnt bid, compared to last season's 16-17 overall and 7-14 Big Ten record. What's also important to note about the Trojans remaining competition is four of them five are not top-25 teams, as No. 9 Nebraska is the only one. However, this does not mean that the Trojans are not dangerously close from slipping out of the tournament bubble.

That said, the Trojans will need both Baker-Mazara and Arenas down the stretch as they look to avoid another missed NCAA Tournament appearance.

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