LAHAINA,Hawaii – USC captured the Maui Invitational championship on Wednesday,defeating Arizona State 86-71 to extend its winning streak to seven games to start the season. The Trojans’ victory marks their most prosperous season-opening run since 2021-22, when they began the year with 13 consecutive wins.
The tournament title provides a important early-season boost for USC, solidifying their position as a team to watch in the Pac-12 and nationally. This win offers valuable momentum as they navigate a challenging schedule and aim for a deep postseason run. Arizona State, meanwhile, struggled to stay competitive throughout the tournament, facing double-digit deficits in all three of their games.
A clutch jumper from the free throw line by an unnamed player put USC ahead 81-69, and a subsequent long 3-pointer from Marsh widened the gap to 86-71, effectively sealing the outcome.Ausar,fresh off a 25-point performance in the semifinals,contributed 14 points for USC. The Trojans were playing without leading scorer Rodney Rice, sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Jacob Cofie added 11 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, while Marsh finished with nine points.
Maurice Odum led Arizona State with 17 points, and Anthony Johnson chipped in with 15.Santiago Trouet and Massamba Diop each scored 13 points for the Sun Devils, who fell to 6-2 on the season.
USC’s dominant performance throughout the maui Invitational underscores their potential as a contender this season.The Trojans will look to carry this momentum forward as they return to regular-season play.
