The upcoming Big Ten Tournament battle between No. 11-seed Rutgers and No. 14-seed USC is expected to be a closely contested showdown, but both teams are dealing with injury concerns that could shift the momentum.
With key players potentially sidelined or playing at less than 100%, each roster’s depth and adaptability will be tested. Here’s a look at the injury report ahead of this matchup.
Rutgers-USC Injury Report
Rutgers Scarlet Knights
F Terrance Williams (Knee): Rutgers forward Terrance Williams has been nursing a knee injury, which has affected his lateral movement and rebounding ability.
Though he has participated in limited practice sessions, his game-time status remains questionable. If Williams is unable to play significant minutes, Rutgers will need to adjust its frontcourt rotation.
G Jamichael Davis (Hamstring): Davis, a crucial defensive presence for Rutgers, is battling a hamstring strain suffered in last week’s game.
While not ruled out, his availability will likely be a game-time decision. The coaching staff will need to weigh the risk of aggravating the injury against his value on the defensive end.
USC Injury Report
G Isaiah Elohim (Ankle): USC guard Isaiah Elohim sustained an ankle sprain in practice and has been undergoing treatment. While he has been seen walking without a limp, his ability to cut and pivot at full speed remains uncertain.
If he is limited, USC may lean more on its bench for offensive production.
OH YEAH WE HAVE #BIGTEN GAMES TODAY
3:30 ET Northwestern vs Minnesota
6:00 ET Iowa vs Ohio State
8:30 ET USC vs RutgersAll games on @peacock!
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C Vincent Iwuchukwu (Back): The Trojans’ starting center, Vincent Iwuchukwu, has been managing back stiffness, which has impacted his playing time in recent games. Given his importance in protecting the rim, his status could have a major influence on USC’s defensive game plan.
How These Injuries Could Impact the Matchup
Rutgers could struggle in the paint without Williams, giving USC an edge in rebounding and post-defense.
Meanwhile, USC’s perimeter defense may weaken if Elohim is unable to play at full capacity, opening the door for Rutgers’ guards to attack from beyond the arc.
Depth will be key for both teams, as second-unit players will need to step up in case of any lingering issues for the injured starters.
WHAT ARE THE OTHER MATCHUPS TODAY? Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament Schedule
As both teams battle for postseason positioning, final injury updates leading up to tip-off will be crucial in determining how this game unfolds. Coaches will likely make last-minute decisions based on how their key players respond during warmups.
The winner of this first-round game will advance to play No. 5-seed Wisconsin on Thursday.
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