Trepagnier Becomes More Assertive

If there was anything for USC to be encouraged about after Wednesday’s 101-84 loss to UCLA, it was the season-high 18-point performance by freshman guard Jeff Trepagnier, one of four freshmen who were being counted on to produce this season but have struggled.

Against UCLA, Trepagnier scored only two points in the first half but led a small Trojan rally after checking in with 16:11 left in the game.

The Bruins had just finished an 8-0 run, were up 64-35 and appeared on their way to a victory of more than 30 points. But senior Gary Williams made a three-point shot and Trepagnier drove the baseline for a dunk, made two free throws and sank a three-pointer after a steal and the Trojans got back to within 19.

Trepagnier appeared confused earlier in the season, asking Coach Henry Bibby and his teammates questions while he was on the court, but he seemed to know what to do against UCLA. Trepagnier had four rebounds and a season-high four steals and, despite the lopsided loss, was smiling late in the game.

Said Bibby: “Jeff wants to play. He’s excited to play. I don’t know that he knows a single one of our plays, but he goes out there with intensity and we need more of that.”