Foes Unload in Trojan Zone

For the first half of the season, USC played a trapping, gambling style of defense.

“USC’s trap was the most aggressive trap I’ve ever seen,” said Ohio State’s Michael Redd last month after the Buckeyes’ 79-73 win over the Trojans.

In losing its last three games, however, USC has trudged about the court on defense. When Trojan guards move into the low post to help defend against teams with larger front-line players, the opposition’s guards have been left open to knock down three-point shots.

UCLA and Cal had season highs of 25 assists against USC; Stanford had 22. UCLA made nine of 16 three-point shots, the Cardinal 15 of 31.

“We haven’t played good zone all season,” Coach Henry Bibby said. “We tell our guys that when teams get inside, to help out. Our guys do that, but then we leave shooters open.”