Tournament Hopes Hinge on Ending Skid

With six games remaining and at least four victories needed to merit NCAA tournament consideration, the Trojans have to do more than just end their five-game losing streak.

Brian Scalabrine said Tuesday USC must consistently stop teams, defensively, particularly when the second half starts.

“I really think we’re losing games in the first five minutes of the second half,” Scalabrine said. “The UCLA, Arizona and Arizona State games--they were kinda decided in those first five minutes. We just haven’t started the second half well. And I really don’t know why. If we play defense we’ll win games.”

David Bluthenthal agreed.

“I didn’t realize it until [Scalabrine] said it, but it’s true,” Bluthenthal said. “I’m assuming it’s a mental thing.”

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USC Coach Henry Bibby is either unwilling to or cannot let go of the brawl after Saturday’s loss to Arizona State. He said Tuesday he is seeking the game film from Pacific 10 officials to review.

“If the film can show me Jeff [Trepagnier] did anything to initiate the situation, I will deal with him,” Bibby said.

He continued to lash out at the Sun Devils, accusing them of “lying” about USC supposedly marking up Arizona State basketballs with profanities. He said next year’s first game with the Sun Devils “is already circled on my calendar.”

UP NEXT

Thursday

vs. Oregon State

7:30 p.m.

Fox Sports Net 2