Trojans get back on track with physical overtime win against Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS — A win is a win, no matter how distinctive the circumstances may be. 

In the midst of a tough road strecth for the USC Trojans, heading into their final game of the trip against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, a restart was needed, and why not do it in the most USC way possible via a overtime win, 70-69, despite blowing a 13-point half time lead. From tip-off to the final additional buzzer sounding off, Chad Baker-Mazara led the way for the Trojans, scoring a team high 29 points.

For the first time in what seemed like weeks, the USC Trojans got off to a hot start in the first half against the Golden Gophers, shooting an even 50% from the floor, with Chad Baker-Mazara leading the way for the Trojans with 16 first-half points. USC found their groove at the halfway point of the first half as both Minnesota and Southern California were scoreless for over five minutes, until an Ezra Ausar layup broke the dam. 

The Trojans began the second half the same way they had been flowing throughout the first, but as soon as the Trojans let their foot off the gas offensively, the Golden Gophers fought and clawed their way back to only be down 62-56. With just 58 seconds left, USC was clinging on to a slim 62-61 lead, until the Gophers got to line and shot some free throws, which turned into the Trojans having their fair share of chance to get to line, with Gabe Dynes sending the game to overtime. 

With 10 seconds left in overtime, Baker-Mazara would draw a crucial foul and go perfect at the line to put the Trojans ahead 70-69, with the Gophers unable to score on their final possesion of the game. The Trojans continue to stay hot at the free throw, as they shot an impressive 82% from the free throw line in the win against Minnesota. 

A crucial win to cap off a tough roadtrip is a scenario that the Trojans needed to get heading back home to the Galen Center. They return home on Tuesday to play the Maryland Terrapins.