LOS ANGELES — In an electrifying matchup, Desmond Claude delivered an impressive performance, scoring 26 points to guide Southern California to a narrow 98-95 victory over UT Arlington on Wednesday evening.

With just 19 seconds remaining, Claude made a crucial layup followed by a jumper, pushing USC ahead 94-90. Jaxon Ellingsworth responded for UTA with a 3-pointer, bringing the score to 94-93 with only 12 seconds remaining. However, Trojans Terrance Williams II and Saint Thomas each sank two free throws shortly after, maintaining the lead and closing out the game.

UT Arlington staged a notable comeback with a 23-11 run, hitting four 3-pointers to take their first lead of the second half at 69-68 with 11:54 left on the clock. During this stretch, Kade Douglas contributed eight points, while Ellingsworth added six. USC quickly retaliated as Williams scored a layup and Kevin Patton Jr. executed a one-handed dunk, putting the Trojans back in front at 72-69 with 10:30 remaining. From that moment forward, neither team managed to pull ahead by more than one possession until Claude sealed the victory in the final seconds.

Claude showcased remarkable shooting accuracy, hitting 9 of 12 attempts and converting 8 of 9 from the free-throw line, alongside contributing eight assists and grabbing five rebounds. His teammates also shone, as Josh Cohen scored 19 points and Williams contributed 18 for USC (3-0). Wesley Yates III rounded out the scoring with 14 points.

On the other side, Jaden Wells led UT Arlington (1-2) with 27 points, while Ellingsworth added 19. Wells was particularly effective from beyond the arc, sinking seven 3-pointers, and Ellingsworth hitting four, contributing to the Mavericks’ impressive shooting percentage of 67% from three-point range (16 of 24).

USC started strong with a 17-5 run and carried a 51-42 lead into halftime. During the first half, Cohen tallied 12 points, and Yates added 10. Meanwhile, Wells’ incredible performance saw him record six 3-pointers, amassing 20 points before the break.

This game marked the inaugural meeting between USC and UT Arlington, setting the stage for potential future encounters.