Home / Sports / USC Trojans: Big Ten's Top Talent in 2026?
USC Trojans: Big Ten's Top Talent in 2026?
7 Jun
Summary
- Analyst Andy Katz names USC the Big Ten's most talented team on paper.
- Key guards Alijah Arenas and Rodney Rice returned, bolstered by KJ Lewis.
- USC heavily recruited top talent through the transfer portal and high school.
USC's men's basketball program is poised for a significant leap forward in the 2026 Big Ten season, according to analyst Andy Katz, who declared them the most talented team on paper. Coach Eric Musselman has orchestrated a robust offseason, leveraging the transfer portal and high school recruiting to build a deep roster.
The Trojans have fortified their backcourt with returning guards Alijah Arenas and Rodney Rice, joined by transfer KJ Lewis from Georgetown. Rice led USC in scoring last season with 20.3 points, Arenas contributed 14.1, and Lewis averaged 14.9 for Georgetown.
Further strengthening the team, USC retained forward Jacob Cofie after his NBA Draft declaration. The addition of multiple transfer portal players like Isaac Bruns, Jalen Cox, and Eric Reibe bolsters frontcourt and backcourt depth. This influx of proven talent aims to make USC a more formidable force in the competitive Big Ten.
The Trojans also secured a top-tier high school recruiting class, adding Christian Collins, Adonis Ratliff, and Darius Ratliff. This blend of veteran transfers and promising freshmen is expected to provide immediate contributions and future depth. Musselman's challenge will be integrating these new pieces to foster team chemistry and capitalize on their potential.
Despite significant roster turnover, USC retains continuity through the return of key players like Arenas, Rice, and Cofie. This continuity is crucial for establishing the program culture Musselman envisions. By clearly defining roles and fostering chemistry, USC aims for a competitive Big Ten showing and a potential NCAA Tournament berth in 2026.
