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USC Trojans Face Injury Woes Before Big Ten Opener
3 Dec, 2025
Summary
- USC, ranked 24th, opens Big Ten play against Oregon.
- Key USC player Rodney Rice is questionable with a shoulder injury.
- Oregon faces significant injury concerns with two starters doubtful.
The No. 24 USC Trojans are set to launch their Big Ten Conference season against the Oregon Ducks, fresh off a championship victory at the Maui Invitational. Despite their undefeated 7-0 record, USC faces potential challenges as key guard Rodney Rice nurses a shoulder injury sustained in a recent close win. His absence, alongside a brief recovery period, could impact the team's dynamics.
Oregon, conversely, enters conference play with a 4-3 record after a disappointing showing in the Players Era tournament. Head coach Dana Altman expressed concerns about the team's offensive performance and acknowledged the critical nature of the upcoming stretch. The Ducks are also battling significant injury issues, with center Nate Bittle and forward Devon Pryor listed as questionable for the USC game.
Both teams are navigating a difficult path into conference play, compounded by the health of their star players. USC's undefeated streak hangs in the balance as they prepare for a challenging road game, while Oregon seeks to overcome its recent struggles and injuries to make a strong Big Ten debut. The availability of Rice for USC and Bittle and Pryor for Oregon will be critical factors.
