With time running out to save its star-crossed season, USC put itself in position for a statement-making Saturday, only to see that dream devolve into a nightmare in an 82-67 loss to No. 12 Nebraska.
It was a painfully familiar scene for the Trojans, who have found new ways to unravel after halftime all season. This time, their full-on collapse came at the worst possible time, with their place on the NCAA tournament bubble as precarious as ever.
Freshman Alijah Arenas ultimately led the Trojans with 14 points, despite being held out of the starting lineup for the first time since his return from injury.