USC Edges Nebraska 78-73, Extends Huskers’ Losing Streak to Five

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Desmond Claude scored 21 points and Rashaun Agee added 14 in the second half as Southern California rallied late to defeat Nebraska 78-73 on Wednesday night, extending the Cornhuskers’ losing streak to five games.

Brice Williams‘ layup and a 3-pointer tied the game at 69 with 1:19 remaining, but Claude responded with a clutch 3-pointer. USC sealed the victory by going 6-for-6 at the free-throw line in the final 17 seconds, including four makes from Wesley Yates III, who finished with 17 points and four steals.

Claude, who also dished out six assists, led the Trojans (12-7, 4-4 Big Ten) in their first season in the conference. Agee, coming off the bench, hit 4 of 6 from beyond the arc and grabbed eight rebounds. Saint Thomas contributed 11 points for USC.

Juwan Gary scored a career-high 27 points for Nebraska (12-7, 2-6), but his efforts weren’t enough to prevent the Huskers from losing their second straight home game after a 20-game winning streak in Lincoln. Williams added 17 points, and reserve Connor Essegian chipped in 15, including three 3-pointers.

Nebraska led 33-31 at halftime, thanks to Gary’s 16 first-half points. However, USC’s balanced attack and late-game execution proved decisive. The Cornhuskers now face a challenging stretch, including games against No. 18 Wisconsin, No. 17 Illinois, and No. 15 Oregon.

The Trojans, under first-year head coach Eric Musselman, have shown resilience in their transition to the Big Ten, securing three road wins in conference play. Nebraska, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they aim to snap their skid and regain momentum in the competitive Big Ten.