The USC Trojans became the latest First Four team to reach the Round of 32, making them a perfect 7-of-7 since it was introduced. It was also the biggest upset of the tournament so far, with the Trojans as 7.5-point underdogs to the SMU Mustangs.
USC’s win over SMU was the biggest upset of NCAA tournament so far
First Four teams continue to have good tournament luck.
The Trojans came back from a 12-point deficit, and were down as many as nine points in the second half. A big shot and good defense in the final seconds secured their 66-65 victory.
After their comeback win, they were understandably elated having gone through so much during the season:
The Trojans were on the bubble most of the year after starting 14-0. They won some late Pac-12 games after battling some injuries during the season, and going on a four-game losing skid in February. Forward Bennie Boatwright came back in early February from a knee injury, which was key in the Trojans’ push heading into March, when he finally got back into the rhythm of things.
Freshman De’Anthony Melton has also been a key contributor. He’s not the most prominent scorer by any means, but has been good for the Trojans since taking over a starting role in late December. Chimezie Metu has been great in his sophomore season, averaging 14.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.
A comeback victory and having overcome so much during the season makes for a great celebration like this one. The Trojans certainly earned it.
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