The men’s basketball team from the University of Oregon is preparing for their conference play opener against USC at the Matthew Knight Arena on Thursday, December 28, 2023. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on ESPN2, with radio coverage available on KUJZ 95.3 FM in Eugene and KFXX 1080 AM in Portland.
In addition to the exciting basketball action, Oregon will host pregame activities on the practice court, including a reptile exhibit, carnival games, and other festivities. The evening’s entertainment will be capped off by a halftime performance from a magician. Doors will open at 5 p.m., and entry to the pregame events will be granted with a game ticket.
The Ducks are coming off an impressive victory against Kent State, leading the game for 39 minutes and 13 seconds with no ties or lead changes. Jermaine Couisnard had an outstanding performance, scoring a season-high 27 points and grabbing a career-best 10 rebounds for his first career double-double. Kario Oquendo added 20 points, shooting 6-11 from the field and 3-8 from beyond the arc. Jackson Shelstad also contributed with 15 points, 5 assists, and a career-high 4 steals.
In their last encounter, the Ducks emerged victorious against USC, securing a 78-60 win on February 9, 2023, at the Matthew Knight Arena. Under coach Altman, Oregon holds a 16-7 record against the Trojans, although they trail in the all-time series 60-69.
Coach Altman has been a driving force for the Ducks in the Pac-12, leading the team to a 155-83 (.651) conference record. Since the 2010-11 season, Oregon ranks 3rd overall in conference wins and home wins with 93. Additionally, they have been successful on the road, securing the 2nd spot with 62 Pac-12 road wins under Altman. The coach also maintains a winning record against every Pac-12 opponent except for Colorado, with the Ducks’ record against the Buffaloes standing at 10-13.
The upcoming conference play opener is highly anticipated, with both teams eager to set the tone for a successful season in the Pac-12. With the Ducks’ recent victory fueling their momentum, fans can expect an intense and thrilling matchup between Oregon and USC.
As the game approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be an electrifying event at the Matthew Knight Arena. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding the team are palpable, and excitement is at an all-time high as the Ducks prepare to battle it out on the court. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a game to remember.
Sources:
– University of Oregon Athletics
– Pac-12.org