LOS ANGELES — Chibuzo Agbo, a transfer from Boise State, delivered a stellar performance for Southern California, scoring 16 of his career-high 21 points in the second half, leading USC to an 80-69 victory over Grambling on Sunday.
In addition to Agbo’s impactful outing, Josh Cohen contributed significantly with 18 points from an impressive 7-of-8 shooting. Desmond Claude also made his mark, scoring all 14 of his points during the second half while securing five rebounds and providing five assists. Agbo showcased his sharpshooting abilities as he hit 4 of 5 attempts from beyond the arc, marking the second consecutive game he has scored at least 20 points with four 3-pointers.
The Trojans kicked off the second half with a lineup shift, bringing in reserves Wesley Yates III, Claude, and Agbo after Grambling had managed to shoot 54% from the field in the first half, entering halftime with a narrow 38-37 lead.
Claude initiated a pivotal moment in the game by converting a three-point play, followed by Agbo, who sunk two 3-pointers surrounding a layup and an and-one free throw by Saint Thomas. Terrence Williams II then capped off a 14-0 run that propelled USC to a 65-53 lead midway through the second half, a lead they would not relinquish.
Despite an extended dry spell of over six minutes without a field goal, Grambling seized the momentum, scoring 13 of the following 16 points. This scoring surge brought them within two points, culminating in a dunk by P.J. Eason with 4:36 left on the clock. However, Claude quickly responded with a layup that halted USC’s drought just 22 seconds later, igniting a strong 12-3 run to close out the game.
Conversely, Grambling continued to struggle, suffering their fourth consecutive loss since a dominant 92-42 victory over Southern-New Orleans in their season opener.
Kintavious Dozier made a notable contribution for the Tigers, with 15 of his total 17 points scored in the first half, while Mikale Stevenson added valuable support with 14 points, including 11 in the second half. Antwan Burnett also chipped in with 13 points, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide for Grambling.