USC 59 Arizona State 55

USC handled the Sun Devils and now sets its eyes on the hated bruins for a semifinal game today at 6pm (PST). Some people have said the refs gave this game to the Trojans after ASU's Jeff Pendergraph was called for an over the back foul with 16 seconds left in the game and the Trojans leading 57-55. Instead of tying the game, Pendergraph received his 5th foul and USC's Davon Jefferson hit both free throws that virtually sealed the win for the Trojans. Although I agree that it was a bad call, to say the refs gave the game away is not fair to the Trojans. USC played some terrific defense down the stretch, limiting the Sun Devils to 28.6% shooting in the 2nd half and not allowing a field goal in the last 9:35 of the game. Daniel Hackett frustrated ASU's James Harden all game long as he shot 6-13 from the field for 16 points. O.J. Mayo turned in another solid performance with 23 points and 6 assists. Just win and move on to the next round, that's what March Madness is all about and that's what the team did yesterday.

Now it's on to today's semifinal matchup against ucla. Throw out the records and seedings in this game. I like USC's chances but if they are to win, they need to cut down significantly on the turnovers. USC's 19 turnovers yesterday led to 24 points for the Sun Devils. We all remember O.J. Mayo's forgettable stat line against the bruins at the Galen Center -- 4 points, 10 turnovers. To say that Mayo has rebounded nicely since that game would be an understatement. Both teams have been on a tear lately, USC having won 6 of 7 and ucla having won 8 in a row. Missing from the last contest was Daniel Hackett, who should be a big factor today defensively. PCBestever and I will be there, albeit in the nose-bleed section, but we'll be there supporting our guys. Remeber tip-off is at 6pm.

Fight On! Beat the bruins!!