Indiana Hoosiers' Three-Game Winning Streak Snapped by USC

The Indiana Hoosiers faced a setback on February 3, 2026, suffering an 81-75 defeat against the USC Trojans at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. This loss ended Indiana's three-game winning streak, which included notable victories over UCLA and Purdue. The Hoosiers now hold a record of 15-8 overall and 6-6 in the Big Ten Conference.

How Indiana's NET Ranking, NCAA Tournament Chances Were Affected By USC LossIndiana Basketball Cites Fatigue, Lack of Tenacity in Loss at USC: 'Hard Trip'3 Takeaways from Indiana Basketball's 81-75 Loss at USCOne-man band not enough to lead Indiana basketball at USCIndiana men’s basketball comeback spurned in loss to USC'We just didn’t have it': Off night for Indiana results in missed opportunity with loss at USC

USC's success was bolstered by the performance of freshman guard Alijah Arenas, who scored 29 points, including 19 in the second half. His contributions were crucial, especially after the Trojans lost their leading scorer, Chad Baker-Mazara, to injury early in the second half. Arenas' ability to hit timely shots helped maintain USC's lead during critical moments of the game.

One-man band not enough to lead Indiana basketball at USC

Despite the loss, Indiana's NCAA Tournament prospects remain intact, as they are still considered on the right side of the bubble. However, the missed opportunity against USC could have significant implications for their postseason chances. Analysts have pointed out that Indiana's performance against USC highlighted ongoing issues, including a lack of secondary scoring and defensive lapses.

How Indiana's NET Ranking, NCAA Tournament Chances Were Affected By USC Loss

In his postgame remarks, DeVries acknowledged the team's fatigue from a demanding travel schedule, stating, “I thought we had a good two days of practice... we just didn’t quite have it tonight.” Wilkerson echoed this sentiment, noting, “It’s a hard trip, man... we’ve got to be better.”

Indiana Basketball Cites Fatigue, Lack of Tenacity in Loss at USC: 'Hard Trip'

The Hoosiers will return to Bloomington to face the Wisconsin Badgers on February 6, 2026. This matchup presents another opportunity for Indiana to solidify their NCAA Tournament position and bounce back from their recent loss.

How Indiana's NET Ranking, NCAA Tournament Chances Were Affected By USC Loss

Indiana's defeat against USC serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in high-stakes college basketball. With a critical game against Wisconsin on the horizon, the Hoosiers must address their shortcomings and regain their momentum to remain competitive in the Big Ten and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

How Indiana's NET Ranking, NCAA Tournament Chances Were Affected By USC Loss