Illinois vs USC: Illini Kick Off LA Swing Wednesday at USC
Illinois (21‑5) rolls into Los Angeles on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, ready to rumble with USC in a marquee Illinois vs USC college basketball showdown. The No. 10 Fighting Illini are riding hot offense and Big Ten muscle. The Trojans, hungry to defend home court at the Galen Center, won’t make it easy. Tip‑off is set to crack the night wide open.
What Did We See in Illinois vs USC? Latest Game Facts
The Illinois vs USC showdown delivered a statement. On February 18, 2026, No. 10 Illinois blasted USC 101‑65 at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. The Illini led from start to finish and improved to 22‑5 (13‑3 Big Ten). Seven Illinois players scored in double figures. The Trojans fell to 18‑8 (7‑8) and have now lost 0‑4 against ranked teams this season.
Illinois led by big margins early and didn’t let up. They shot 51.6% from the field and 44.8% on three‑pointers, overwhelming USC by as much as 39 points.
Short Topic’s Relevant Sports Details
Illinois came into this game after a strong bounce back from earlier road losses and a 71‑51 win over Indiana on February 15. David Mirkovic scored 25 points in that matchup. USC, meanwhile, had lost to Ohio State 89‑82, with Alijah Arenas scoring 25 in that game.
This was the first Illinois vs USC Big Ten matchup this season and the first in Los Angeles since 1975. USC still leads the all‑time series 7‑3 before this meeting.
Source: am570las Sports, Illinois 2025-26 Season Stats
Source: am570las Sports, USC 2025-26 Season Stats
Technical Analysis Summary
Illinois stepped on the gas in transition and controlled the boards. Their offense was diverse, not dependent on one scorer. Seven players scored at least 10 points. Stojakovic returned from injury and led with 22 points.
USC struggled to match the pace. They turned the ball over 14 times, leading to 22 Illini points off turnovers. The Trojans were also without second‑leading scorer Chad Baker‑Mazara.
What Do Other Commentators Say?
Analysts highlighted Illinois’ rebounding edge and offensive balance before the game. FanDuel data showed Illinois ranked 31st in points per game (84.2) and held a strong rebound margin. USC’s scoring was solid, but defense lagged, ranking 233rd in points allowed per game (75.8).
SI’s preview noted USC needed a strong defensive effort and home crowd energy to have an upset shot, but key injuries loomed.
Final Remarks
In a matchup many circled on their calendars, Illinois didn’t just win, they dominated. Balanced scoring, efficient shooting, and depth separated them from USC in Los Angeles. This kind of performance boosts Illinois’ resume for March and sends a clear message: when the Illini roar, they roar loud.
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