UPDATE: Oregon Ducks suffered a tough 82-77 defeat against No. 24 USC on July 25, 2023, at Matthew Knight Arena. Despite a commendable performance, including 23 points from Kwame Evans Jr., the Ducks fell short, marking their fourth consecutive loss.
Without star player Nate Bittle, sidelined with an ankle sprain, Oregon displayed strong shooting, hitting 47.2% from the field and a season-high 43.5% from three-point range. However, their inability to capitalize at the free throw line proved detrimental, as they finished at just 65.4%.
Coach Dana Altman expressed frustration with his team’s execution, particularly regarding their defensive lapses and quick shooting decisions. “My job is to get my team to do what we need to do to win… I haven’t done it,” Altman stated, emphasizing the need for improved ball movement and discipline.
Evans Jr. was a standout, scoring 16 of his 23 points in the second half and grabbing nine rebounds, showcasing a valiant effort in a losing battle. He temporarily put the Ducks ahead 61-60 with just over eight minutes left, but USC quickly regained control and maintained their lead.
USC, now at an undefeated 8-0, capitalized on Oregon’s defensive weaknesses, particularly in rebounding, where they dominated 23-12 in the second half. Key players for USC included Chad Baker-Mazara, who led with 25 points, and Jacob Cofire, contributing 16 points in the first half alone.
In a tense final stretch, Oregon fought back, narrowing the gap three times in the last five minutes. However, missed shots and critical free throw misses sealed their fate. Altman acknowledged USC’s defense as a key factor in limiting their offensive plays, particularly for Jackson Shelstad, who struggled in the second half.
Evans Jr. remains hopeful, acknowledging the need for the team to trust Altman’s strategies. “We have to start trusting coach more,” he said, urging teammates to align their efforts to improve their performance moving forward.
Looking ahead, the Ducks aim to regroup for their next game against UCLA. Altman expressed optimism for Bittle’s return, which could significantly bolster the team’s chances. Fans and players alike are eager to see if Oregon can turn their fortunes around and break their losing streak.
Stay tuned for updates on Oregon’s journey as they strive to get back on track and make an impact in the upcoming match against UCLA.