Full Breakdown
Troy Men's Basketball Falls to USC in Triple Overtime Thriller
11/21/2025, 10:20:12 PM
Heartbreaking Triple Overtime Loss
Troy men's basketball faced a challenging match against USC on November 20, 2025, ending in a dramatic triple overtime defeat, 104-101. The game, held at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, saw Troy (4-3) push USC (4-0) to the brink, with the final shot coming from Jordan Marsh, who hit a three-pointer as time expired. Cooper Campbell led Troy with a career-high 32 points and 12 assists, marking his first career double-double. Victor Valdes contributed 24 points, while Thomas Dowd added 19 points and 12 rebounds.
The game was characterized by intense competition, featuring 19 lead changes and a halftime score of 29-29. USC controlled much of the second half, leading by as much as 11 points. However, Troy displayed resilience, tying the game multiple times, including a clutch three-pointer by Campbell that sent the game into overtime. Despite leading 101-96 in the third overtime, Troy could not maintain the advantage, ultimately succumbing to USC's late-game heroics.
Key Performances and Statistics
Troy's performance was notable in several areas, particularly in rebounding, where they outperformed USC 63-39. Campbell's scoring marked a significant achievement, as he became the first Troy player to score 30 points in a game since Tayton Conerway in January 2024. Dowd's double-double was his third of the season, and Valdes's 24 points set a new career high. The game lasted three hours and 11 minutes, reflecting the intense back-and-forth nature of the contest.
Official Statements & Responses
Head Coach Scott Cross expressed pride in his team's effort, stating, "I couldn't be prouder of the way they battled... We outrebounded [USC] 63-39, and that shows the heart, toughness, and grit this team played with." He acknowledged the disappointment of the loss but emphasized the positive aspects of the team's performance.
Upcoming Challenges
Following the loss to USC, Troy will continue its six-game road trip, heading to Florida for the Coconut Hoops event in Ft. Myers. The Trojans are set to face Toledo on November 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. CT, as they look to rebound from the heartbreaking defeat.
Conclusion
Troy's narrow loss to USC in triple overtime highlights both the team's potential and the challenges they face in a competitive season. With standout performances from Campbell, Valdes, and Dowd, the Trojans demonstrated resilience and skill, setting the stage for future matchups as they aim to build on their strengths in upcoming games.
