USC Trojans:

De Pinto Goes Deep

By Jordan Moore on June 30, 2011 4:46 PM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

At any level of professional baseball, a hitter's first long ball is a big deal. We are happy to pass along news that former USC second baseman Joe De Pinto got to experience that moment last night.

De Pinto, who was drafted by the Chicago White Sox earlier this month in the twenty-first round, only signed his big league contract two weeks ago.

Playing currently for the Great Falls Voyagers (White Sox Rookie Ball team), De Pinto hit a two-run, first inning shot in the team's 12-5 loss Wednesday night against the Missoula Osprey (Diamondbacks' Rookie Ball Team). In his first nine games, De Pinto is hitting a modest .289 with a team-high six RBIs.

Ironically, another member of the Trojan family got to call the home run shot. Alum Jared Sandler, a former USC baseball manager and USCTrojans.com broadcaster , is currently the play-by-play man for the Voyagers.

Congrats to both Joe and Jared on continuing to showcase their talents at the next level!

Radio Call of De Pinto's Home Run

The All-Time Greats

By Jordan Moore on June 30, 2011 2:00 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

In case yesterday's post didn't hammer home the message, Pac-12 blogger Ted Miller of ESPN.com (for the second straight day), has afforded USC supporters an opportunity to once again bask in the Era of Good Feeling more commonly referred to as the Pac-10's 33-year history.

Miller decided to rank the All-Time Greatest Teams during the the conference's three-decade-plus run, and it's no surprise the Trojans are once again more than well represented.

The USC football (photo via AP) teams to make this parting Top 12 list include: the 2004 AP National Champions (No.2), the 2003 Co-National Champions (No.3), the 2005 National Championship Runner-up (No.4), the 1978 Coaches' Poll National Champions (No.5), the 1979 National Championship Runner-up (No.6).

While the Cardinal and Gold ran away from the field in terms of the All-Time Great Teams, the 1991 National Champion Washington Huskies were rated the No.1 team in Pac-10 history. The 2000 Huskies also came at No.11.

ASU (1996), Oregon (2001 and 2010) and Oregon State (2000) also made the list.

Freshman Focus: Byron Wesley

By Jordan Moore on June 30, 2011 12:00 PM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Choosing a university to play college basketball at should have been one of the more difficult decision's in highly-recruited Byron Wesley's life.

But USC's prized gem of the Class of 2011 knew early on that Troy was the place for him.

"I committed here early on in my junior year," Wesley said. "The coaches were all recruiting me really tough, but I felt like I had a good relationship with Kevin O'Neill and the rest of the coaching staff. The deciding factor though, was when I went on my unofficial visit and saw the campus, met the players and just had a great time. I knew from then on I wanted to be a Trojan."

After taking a look at his high school highlight reels, it's easy to see why USC was so thrilled to sign an offensive threat from the small forward position like Wesley (averaged 19.5 points per game his senior year). At six-foot-five, the freshman is a prime target on the fast break, can get to the basket with a variety of dribble-drive penetration moves and forces opposing defenses to guard him tightly on the perimeter in catch and shoot scenarios.

While that may be all well and good, the former Etiwanda Eagles' star will dawn the Cardinal and Gold uniform for his defensive-minded head coach for two reasons.

"I think I can fit in really well," said Wesley. "I can make a big contribution to the team whether it's with my defense or my rebounding."

Although the freshman continues to work on his jump shot (both from a consistency and range standpoint), it's his body frame, long arms and polished court awareness at the defensive end, that will make him an instant hit with his coach and USC fans.

Not surprisingly, Wesley (who has been compared to the Lakers' Ron Artest) expects this year's team to win the Pac-12 title and to make a solid run in the NCAA Tournament. However, it's the goal he has for himself as a Trojan that might surprise people.

"I want to get a degree here in business and a minor in film," said Wesley candidly on his personal expectations. "I took an Economy class my senior year, and it was really interesting and caught my eye. I think I might want to be an accountant someday so business can help with that."

While the Trojans' season-opener is still over four months away, Wesley can't wait to begin his collegiate career in what is more or less his own backyard (lives in nearby Fontana,CA).

"It's all just a blessing," said Wesley on getting to play in front of family and friends. "I know it's a big stage, but that has never scared me before. I want USC fans to see how hard I play and to know that just because I am freshman doesn't mean I can't compete with other college players."

(Photo by ESPN LA)

Draft Praise

By Jordan Moore on June 30, 2011 10:39 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

When the Sixers selected former Trojan big man Nikola Vucevic (photo via Daily Trojan) with the 16th pick in last week's NBA Draft, USC became just the second school (Kansas being the other) to have a first-round selection in four of the past five years.

It's an honor that is finally getting the praise it deserves from around the country.

Gary Parrish of CBSSports.com, had this to say on his blog this morning:

"USC is tied for the most first-round selections over the past five seasons- trailing only Kansas, Texas, Ohio State and Kentucky. That means USC has had more first-round selections over the past five seasons than every other Pac-10 school, every Big East school and Duke, and the same amount of first-round picks as North Carolina. In other words, USC has been a major factor in recent drafts."

It should be noted that the other four Trojans to be chosen with first-round selections have all had meaningful contributions at the NBA level.

Nick Young (Wizards) led his team in scoring in 2011 with 17.4 points per game, O.J. Mayo (Grizzlies) played the role of sixth man (11.3 points and 3.2 rebounds per game) for a Memphis team that made a surprising run to the second round of the 2011 NBA Playoffs, Taj Gibson (Bulls) electrified the United Center crowd with two highlight reel dunks in the Eastern Conference Finals and provided quality minutes off the bench (7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game) for first-year coach Tom Thibadeau and DeMar DeRozan (Raptors) had the largest scoring increase (8.6 to 17.2 points per game) of any sophomore player in the league in 2011.

(Photo by NBC Sports)

'Bam' Enshrinement

By Jordan Moore on June 30, 2011 9:00 AM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

In Dec. 2010, former USC running back Sam 'Bam' Cunningham (1970-1972) was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, becoming the 37th Trojan in school history to achieve the honor.

Cunningham, who is famously remembered for helping to integrate Southern schools after his 135-yard, two-touchdown performance at Alabama in Sept.1970, will finally be enshrined at a July 16th ceremony held in South Bend, IN.

In addition to the impact he had in helping to tear down the color barrier in college football, Cunningham's career as a Trojan was not too shabby either. A captain of the 1972 National Championship team and the Rose Bowl Game MVP in 1973, Cunningham rushed for 1,579 yards, caught 34 passes for 293 yards and 25 total touchdowns in his USC career.

The native of Santa Barbara, CA played 10 years (1973-1982) in the NFL with the New England Patriots, earning one selection to the Pro Bowl in 1978.

If you would like to support Cunningham on his well-deserved day in South Bend, tickets are still available for his enshrinement ceremony.

Click here to buy tickets.

(Photo by LA Times)

Football, Chicken and Waffles

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 5:00 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Today the USC football team had a mandatory team meeting to discuss off-season plans for the summer.

Both AD Pat Haden and coach Lane Kiffin addressed the team regarding compliance and staying out of trouble off the field. Additionally, Kiffin preached the importance of staying healthy and eating right to maintain game shape.

He ended his talk with a bit of a twist though.

"We all know nutrition is important to maintaining strength," Kiffin told his team. "But today we are making an exception."

The exception being that Kiffin brought in Roscoe's famous chicken and waffles combo for the whole team to enjoy.

Here are some of the reactions from the surprise feast:

Christian Tupou (DE): "Thanks Pat and Lane for feeding the dogs!"

Matt Barkley (QB): "This is my first time eating Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles."

Dillon Baxter (RB): "Everyone goes for two pieces of chicken, but I go for three."

The Pac-10's Elite

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 4:00 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Times they are a changing on the west coast. On Friday, the Pac-10 conference (with roots dating back to the original Pacific Coast Conference of 1915) will officially expand (for the sixth time in conference history) to 12 strong with the additions of member institutions Colorado and Utah.

But thanks to ESPN's Pac-12 blogger, Ted Miller, Trojan fans have been given one final chance to embrace the past 33 memory-filled years from a conference that will soon be formally-known as the Pac-10.

On Wednesday, Miller named his All-Time All-Pac-10 team and it's no surprise Cardinal and Gold all but dwarfed it's conference foes on both sides of the ball.

The esteemed Trojans to make the list include: quarterback Matt Leinart (2005), running backs Charles White (1979) and Marcus Allen (1981), wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett (2006), offensive lineman Brad Budde, linebacker Chris Clairborne and safety Ronnie Lott.

All-Pac-10 Team Breakdown by School

1. USC (7)

2. Arizona (4)

3. ASU (3)

3. California (3)

3. UCLA (3)

6. Oregon State (1)

6. Washington (1)

6. Washington St. (1)

(Photo by AP)

Student-Athlete Salutes

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 1:33 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

ESPN Radio 710, USC's flagship radio station, has been running a weekly USC Scholar-Athlete salute the past few months.

The station has already highlighted the on-field and classroom accomplishments of Alex Lendrum (swimming), Joelle Bekhazi (water polo), Matt Barkley (football), Joel Dennerley (water polo), Brittany Kerridge (soccer), Briana Gilbreath (basketball), Jaak Poldma (tennis), Helen Tinkus (rowing), Geena Urango (volleyball) and Chris Mezger (baseball).

This week, rowing's Lenka Vrecnikova is being featured, and the following two weeks will spotlight volleyball's Murphy Troy and golf's Lisa McCloskey.

The segments run intermittently throughout the day, so tune in to ESPN Radio 710 and listen for these USC Scholar-Athlete Salutes.

Troy (below) will be honored next week by ESPN 710 Radio

(Photo by Daily Trojan)

Freshman Focus: Alexyz Vaioletama

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 12:00 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

If a picture really does say a 1,000 words, then the permanent ear-to-ear grin on USC freshman forward Alexyz Vaioletama's face tells you all you need to know.

"I didn't think I would even be here," Vaioletama said regarding her mindset two years ago.

Despite helping the U16 USA team breeze through the competition (by an average of 70 points per game) at the FIBA qualifying tournament in the Summer of 2009, the six-foot-one forward's future in Cardinal and Gold or for that matter in any NCAA uniform looked to be in serious jeopardy.

Although she selflessly played through pain in order to help punch the Stars and Stripes' ticket to the 2010 World Championships in France, it would come with an unfortunate cost- her entire junior season at Mater Dei HS (Santa Ana, CA).

Vaioletama (picture via USA Basketball) suffered stress fractures in both legs and would be forced to rehab for nine months during what should have been the most important year of her basketball life.

"I thought all of the schools who were initially interested were going to drop me," said Vaioletama. "Because the injury I had could have been career-ending. But, USC gave me a chance."

While Vaioletama initially fell in love with the USC campus upon her unofficial visit because of the communications program, it's proximity to her hometown of Fountain Valley, CA, the university's close-knit networking family and the women's basketball coaching staff, it was a call she received towards the end of her rehabilitation that sealed her fate as a Trojan.

"Coach Michael Cooper called me personally and reiterated that the program was still interested in me regardless of my injury," said Vaioletama who signed her letter of intent in April 2011. "Just the fact that he talked about my personality and how I conducted myself meant a lot."

In Vaioletama, (rated as the No.14 best player in the Class of 2011 by ESPNU), the Trojans are getting the whole package. Although she was overshadowed at times by her Mater Dei teammates (2011 Gatorade National Player of the Year Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis and UCLA-bound Jordan Adams), during the Monarchs' 2011 CIF Division I Title run, a fully-rehabbed Vaioletama (who scored 10.7 point per game) illustrated her length, athleticism, grittiness and high basketball IQ on a nightly basis.

However, the freshman believes her greatest asset to the Women of Troy this season will not be found in a box score.

"Intensity, passion and hard work," said Vaiolatema on the intangibles she will bring to a USC squad that fell short of the tournament in 2011. "I am very passionate about everything I do and also want to be a leader. Even though I am a freshman that is something I can bring to the table."

While the task of making the leap to the next level may be a daunting one for the 18-year-old who still admits she needs to improve her conditioning, if healthy, it looks like Cooper and Co. have a college-ready prospect on their hands that just might invigorate new life into a program looking to get over the hump.

And that's something all Trojan fans can smile about.

(Photo by OC Register)

Hard Court Honors

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 11:00 AM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Although it's certainly not the first time (and probably won't be the last), we are happy to report that USC tennis stars Steve Johnson (2011 National Champion in men's singles) and Maria Sanchez (USTA/ITA Singles Champion in Fall 2010) have been honored with yet another postseason award.

The Intercollegiate Tennis Association has selected both Pac-10 Player of the Year award-winners to their 28th annual College All-Star team. For both, this is their second year in a row being named an All-American.

Johnson (photo via OC Register) and Sanchez will be honored at a ceremony prior to the U.S. Open on Aug. 27 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. It should be noted that as the 2011 NCAA Champion in men's singles, Johnson will also be participating in the grand slam tournament.

Click here for the complete list of ITA All-Stars.

The dynamic duo will also make a return trip to the USTA Summer Team, which provides the country's top student-athletes with valuable exposure to the association's pro circuit through an intensive training program. They will be joined by fellow USC tennis player Ray Sarmiento (No.9 ranked freshman in the country in Fall 2010).

USTA Summer Team selections were determined based on performance at the ITA All-Americans, NCAA Championships, National Indoor Championships, USTA Pro Circuit, ATP and WTA events.

Congrats to these three on representing Troy on and off the tennis court!

Click here for the USTA Summer Team Roster.

(Photo by The Daily Trojan)

Welcome Aboard, Buffs and Utes

By Jordan Moore on June 29, 2011 9:00 AM | 4 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

This Friday, July 1, is a historic day, as the Pac-10 officially expands into the Pac-12 with the addition of Colorado and Utah into the conference.

Both schools add to the prestige and competitiveness of the conference. USC athletic director Pat Haden warmly welcomes both institutions.

"The Trojan family is very excited to welcome the fans, alumni, student-athletes, coaches, athletic staff and university personnel of Colorado and Utah to a fabulous conference, the Pac-12. Both Colorado and Utah are wonderful additions to our conference. They bring a rich athletic heritage to a conference that has won more national championships than any other and they have academic visions that are in line with all of our member institutions.

"We realize that this now ramps up the competition level in the Pac-12. We look forward to it, as I know the Buffs and Utes do. It's going to be one fun journey!"

Green An All-Star

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 5:00 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Some exciting news to share from this past weekend.

Former Trojan shortstop Grant Green was selected to represent Team USA for the second straight year at Major League Baseball's 13th annual XM All-Star Futures Game, held at Chase Field on July 10 in Phoenix, AZ.

Green is currently playing for the Oakland Athletics' Double-A affiliate (Midland Rockhounds) in the Texas League. Currently, the native of Fullerton, CA is batting .281 with four home runs, 17 doubles and 36 RBIs.

The 13th overall pick in the 2009 MLB Draft has quickly moved up through the A's organization in just two years. Last year, in his first full minor league season, Green showcased his tremendous offensive prowess with a .318 batting average, 20 HRs and 87 RBIs for Single-A Stockton.

In Green's first All-Star Game appearance, USC's all-time leader in triples (20) went 1-2 with an RBI single.

Of Green's 2010 U.S. teammates, nine position players were called up to the big leagues within the last year- Dominic Brown (Phillies), Hank Conger (Angels), Danny Espinosa (Nationals), Dee Gordon (Dodgers), Desmond Jennings (Rays), Eric Hosmer (Royals), Logan Morrison (Marlins), Mike Moustoukas (Royals) and Ben Revere (Twins).

Definitely a sign of big things to come for Green.

The XM All-Star Futures Game will be shown on July 10th at 3:30 PM Los Angeles time on ESPN2 and MLB.TV.

Green (right) chatting it up with Hall of Famer Ricky Henderson at last year's Futures game.

(Photo via ESPN LA)

Business Savvy

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 3:30 PM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

After graduating from UC Davis with a bachelor's degree in Law and Society, Steve Gatena had a desire to achieve bigger and better things. So, of course he made his way over to USC.

While working on his Master's degree in Strategic Public Relations at the Annenberg School of Communication in the Fall of 2008, Gatena (No.73 on the left) decided to make the most of his two remaining years of eligibility (previously was a DE for the Air Force and LT for UC Davis) and walked on to the USC football team.

During his two years at Troy, Gatena proved to be a very serviceable backup offensive tackle (2008) and tight end (2009). For his ability to provide the Trojans with depth and versatility on the practice field, Gatena was awarded USC's Service Team Offensive Player of the Year award for 2008.

And it's that same drive and character he illustrated in a Trojan uniform, that has made him a successful businessman off the field.

Today, Gatena is the co-founder and CEO of the production company REP Interactive- a concept he initially purposed in his entrepreneurship class in the Marshall School of Business.

Specializing in new media commercials and viral videos, in just a short time REP has already teamed up on projects with GE Healthcare, Coldwell Banker, the Marriott and the Los Angeles Dodgers among others.

If you would like to hear more from Gatena, he will be at the Chelsea Lounge in Hermosa Beach tomorrow night at 6:30 PM for a Q&A session put on by the USC Marshall Partners South Bay/Long Beach Chapter.

WNBA's Top 15

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 1:54 PM | 3 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

As part of the WNBA's 15th Anniversary, at this year's All-Star Game on July 23 the league will honor its Top 15 all-time players as voted on by its fans.

Of the 30 finalists left to be voted on, three Trojan alums are represented (Cynthia Cooper, Lisa Leslie and TIna Thompson).

Show these three Women of Troy some love by voting online- which ends July 14.

Click here to vote!

Matthews Rated No.19

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 12:00 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

With the current NFL lockout (now on Day 108) creating a lack of football-related content for media outlets covering the sport on a day-to-day basis, the league's network has turned to viewer-friendly programming every Sunday night with a rankings show, The Top 100 Players of 2011.

The list (which was voted on by NFL players following the 2010-2011 season) gets revealed in increments of 10 players each week counting down from 100.

Through the first 80 selections, not a single former USC player was selected by their peers. Nonetheless, on Sunday night Trojan fans were treated to some reassurance after eight hard weeks of disappointment.

Former Trojan linebacker Clay Matthews (26th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft) was honored by his peers as the 19th best player in the league, after a sophomore season that rivals any in the history of the NFL. In just his second year, Matthews anchored the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers' defense with 13.5 sacks (fourth best in the league), 60 tackles, two forced fumbles, one interception and one touchdown.

The 24-year-old finished just two votes shy of fellow Trojan Troy Polamulu for the AP's 2010 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.

With just 10 players left to be revealed on this year's list, Polamulu's name has still yet to be called. Tune in to the NFL Network this Sunday at 5 PM Los Angeles time to see where No.43 ends up in the Top 10.

(Photo via OC Register)

A Wimbledon Surprise

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 9:56 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

This picture of former USC tennis star Robert Farah comes from our very own Jordan Moore, who despite being across the pond can't seem to escape the Trojan family.

Farah (who was the No.1 singles player on USC's 2009 National Championship team) currently is teamed up with Juan Sebastian Cabal in the 2nd round of the Gentleman's Doubles at Wimbledon against James Cerretani (USA)/ Philipp Marx (Germany).

It's nice to see Jordan gets to share his bucket list experience with a fellow Trojan.

Simmons Gets Chance

By Jordan Moore on June 28, 2011 9:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

While recently our attention has been focused on the Sixers' selection of Nikola Vucevic with the 16th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft last week, his former teammates (Alex Stepheson, Donte Smith and Marcus Simmons) who were in consideration for the draft are not forgotten.

Thanks to associate head coach Bob Cantu, we have some promising news regarding Simmons (picture right via OC Register).

Although the six-foot-six guard was not selected in the draft, he will get an opportunity this week to showcase his talents at a mini-camp for scouts from the San Antonio Spurs' organization.

While Simmons only averaged 5.1 points and 2.8 rebounds per game during his senior season, his defensive effort against 2011 draftees like Klay Thompson (Warriors), Malcolm Lee (Timberwolves), Jordan Hamilton (Nuggets), Josh Selby (Grizzlies) and Tyler Honeycutt (Bulls) earned him the 2011 Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year Award.

On Thursday night, the Spurs traded for Kawhi Leonard (San Diego State) and drafted Corey Joseph (Texas) and Adam Hanga (Hungary).

However, if Simmons displays the same type of work ethic and intensity at both ends of the court he did while in a Trojan uniform, he may turn out to be a perfect fit for defensive-minded coach Greg Popovich.

(Photo by Arizona Republic)

High Marks

By Jordan Moore on June 27, 2011 4:30 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Although the Pac-12 conference doesn't officially welcome Colorado and Utah into the fold until Friday, that didn't stop one online publication from handing out preseason honors to members of the 12 football programs.

The Cardinal and Gold came in a tie for second with Washington in AthonsSports.com's 2011 All-Pac-12 Team, trailing only the Stanford Cardinal (12). Among the Trojans' 11 selections, sophomore receiver Robert Woods and junior safety T.J. McDonald received first-team nods.

Other Trojans to be named to the list include: quarterback Matt Barkley (2nd team), center Khaled Holmes (2nd team), offensive lineman Matt Kalil (2nd team), defensive lineman Nick Perry (2nd team), cornerback Nickell Robey, Woods (2nd team kick returner), running back Marc Tyler (3rd team), defensive lineman Christian Tupou (3rd team) and place kicker Andre Heidari (3rd team).

Even though it doesn't count for anything on the field, it's good

to know that two months away from the season opener against Minnesota on Sept. 3, perception of the Trojans (at least on an individual basis) is still rather high.

All-Pac-12 Selections By School

1. Stanford (12)

2. USC (11)

2. Washington (11)

4. Oregon (9)

5. Arizona State (7)

5. California (7)

7. Oregon State (6)

8. Arizona (4)

8. UCLA (4)

10.Colorado (3)

11.Utah (2)

11.Washington State (2)

(Photo via OC Register)

Ali Pac-10's Finest

By Jordan Moore on June 27, 2011 2:30 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

It's already been quite a year for USC's redshirt senior Nia Ali and we are only six months in.

Today, Pac-10 Commissioner Larry Scott officially put the cherry on top of what was truly a sensational 2011 season for the Philadelphia, PA native, naming her this year's Pac-10 Female Track Athlete of the Year.

Click her for the full story

Just a few of her many accomplishments this past season include: the 2011 NCAA title in the 100m hurdles with a time of 12.63w (+2.1) earlier this month in Des Moines, IA, the 2011 Pac-10 title in the 100m high hurdles with a time of 12.77 (2nd all-time among USC females in the event) on May 14th and a second place finish in the high jump at the 2011 Pac-10 Championships clearing the bar at 6-1.25 (also 2nd all-time among USC females in the event).

Although her collegiate campaign ended earlier this month, the Bowerman Award finalist (top collegiate track athlete) competed at the U.S. Championships in Eugene, OR over the weekend. She finished in fifth place in 100m hurdles final.

With today's announcement, Ali joins fellow esteemed Trojans Virginia Powell (2006) and Inger Miller (1994) as the only females in school history to win the prestigious award.

Congrats Nia!

Trojan's WC Debut

By Jordan Moore on June 27, 2011 1:00 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

When the U.S. Women's National Team takes to the pitch tomorrow in Dresden, Germany against group stage opponent North Korea, Trojan fans will likely recognize at least one familiar face, Amy Rodriguez.

Now a starter for Team USA, the former Trojan looks forward to her first World Cup appearance and the chance to help her country regain the coveted title for the first time since Brandi Chastain's famous shootout goal in the 1999 WC Final.

"It's a growing process. This is my first World Cup, so obviously I'm going in with nerves and a lot of excitement as well," Rodriguez recently told reporters. "I feel like this has been a really long process for me and now it's all kind of come together. It's finally here."

Click here to read an LA Times feature on Rodriguez.

Rodriguez is fondly remembered for leading the Trojans to a National Championship during her junior season in 2007. During USC's NCAA title run, the native of Lake Forest, CA led the team in scoring with 10 goals and three assists. She ranks No.4 all-time in career goals (31) at USC.

As a forward for the Stars and Stripes, the 24-year-old has netted 15 goals in 62 career appearances. During the team's qualifying run in 2010, Rodriguez made a name for herself scoring seven times in 17 matches (11 of which she started).

"I feel like this team has something about it," said Rodriguez on the makeup of the U.S. National Team. "I can't explain what it is, but we know what it takes to win."

When she's not playing for the senior team, Rodriguez (the No.1 overall pick in the Women's Professional Soccer league in 2009) resides in the City of Brotherly Love. She currently plays for the Philadelphia Independence, and finished third in the WPS in 2010 with 12 goals.

To catch Rodriguez and the rest of Team USA against North Korea at Rudolf-Harbig Stadium, tune in tomorrow to ESPN at 9:15 AM Los Angeles time.

(Photo via The LA Times)

Raveling Turns 74

By Jordan Moore on June 27, 2011 10:00 AM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

A Happy Birthday message is in order for former USC coach George Raveling, who turns 74 years young today.

During his eight years (1987-1994) at the helm of the men's basketball program, Raveling (photo by the LA Times) led the Trojans to back-to-back appearances in both the NCAA (1991 and 1992) and NIT (1993 and 1994) Tournaments.

In addition to serving as USC's 11th coach in school history, Raveling also coached at his alma mater Villanova (assistant), Maryland (assistant), Washington State (HC) and Iowa (HC).

Off the court, he is remembered for not only witnessing one of the most historic moments in American history but owning a piece of it as well. After working as a bodyguard for Martin Luther King Jr. during his famous "I Have a Dream Speech" on August 23, 1968, Raveling somehow managed to convince the civil rights leader to give him the original copy of the speech- a possession he still holds to this day.

On the bench, Raveling made history himself during his stops at Maryland (ACC) and Washington State (Pac-10), becoming the first African American coach in both respective conferences.

At the 1984 Summer Olympics In Los Angeles, Raveling added a gold medal to his successful coaching resume. The native of Washington, DC was Bob Knight's lead assistant on a team that included Hall of Famers Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing and Chris Mullin.

While his coaching days are long behind him, the 74-year-old still manages to stay close to the game of basketball. Currently, Raveling is the Director of International Basketball for Nike.

Great Strides

By Jordan Moore on June 27, 2011 8:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

It was a banner occasion for the USC track and field team this past weekend in Eugene, OR at the USA Track and Field Championships and USA Junior Track and Field Championships.

Two current Trojan athletes (freshmen Jessica Davis and Josh Mance) earned spots on the U.S. Junior National Team, and two accomplished alums (Jesse Williams and Allyson Felix) etched their names on the U.S. Senior National Team roster.

Felix and Williams will compete with the Senior Team at the IAAF World Championships in Daegu, Korea from Aug. 27-Sept. 4, while Davis (pictured below) and Mance will compete with the Junior Team at the IAFF Junior World Championships from July 6-10 in Lille, France.

Click here for the full story.

Click her for LA Times feature on Felix.

Here's how the U.S. Championships broke down for the Cardinal and Gold:

Jessica Davis- With a time of 22.93, Davis placed second in the 200m dash (set the USC female freshman 200 m record in 2011 with a time of 22.84) and claimed her spot on the Junior Team. She will also represent the national team as a pool runner in the 4x100m relay after finishing third in the 100m dash event this weekend with a time of 11.40.

Josh Mance- The freshman from Pomona, CA punched his ticket to France with an impressive first place time of 45.85 in the Junior 400m dash. In 2011, Mance set the USC freshman record in the event with a time of 45.29.

Allyson Felix- The three-time Olympic medalist (Gold- 4x400m relay in 2008 and Silver- 200m in 2004 and 2008) was in typical form this weekend. Although not her primary event, Felix dominated the competition in the 400m with a time of 50.40. With the win, the former-Trojan became the first woman to capture the U.S. title in the 100m, 200m and 400m races.

Jesse Williams- The 2005 NCAA Indoor Champion secured his spot on the Senior Team with a top-notch performance that not only won the men's high jump competition but set a high mark for the world this season. Williams cleared the bar with an astonishing 7-9.25 jump.

Other current and former Trojans to compete at Hayward Field this weekend included: 2011 NCAA Champion Nia Ali (women's 100m HH), Virginia Powell (women's 100m HH), Candice Davis (women's 100m HH), Reggie Wyatt (men's 400m IH), Brendan Ames (men's 110m HH), Ryan Wilson (men's 110m HH), Logan Taylor (men's 110m HH), Joey Hughes (men's 400m race), Cooper Thompson (men's javelin), Corey White (men's javelin), Noah Bryant (men's shot put), Allen Simms (men's triple jump), Duane Solomon (men's 800m race) and Lionel Larry (men's 400m dash).

(Photo via LA Times)

Freshman Focus

By Jordan Moore on June 24, 2011 12:03 PM | 2 Comments

I am headed to London for a week to cross Wimbledon off my sports bucket list, so I will leave you in the capable hands of Dave Dulberg.

Coming up next week, my talented pupil will have a "Freshman Focus" series featuring incoming talents George Farmer (football), Byron Wesley (men's basketball), Russell Renteria (men's water polo) and Alexyz Vaioletama (women's basketball).

Happy reading and enjoy your 4th of July!

USC SID Tim Tessalone bumped into LA Times columnist Chris Dufresne in Florence.

Scholar Stars

By Jordan Moore on June 24, 2011 11:55 AM | No Comments

USC men's tennis three-time national champion Jaak Poldma and USC baseball right-hander Chris Mezger were named 2011 spring scholar-athletes of the year by the Pac-10 today.

Click here for the full story.

Click here for our fun feature on Poldma.

Click here for our fun feature on Mezger.

Poldma sported a 3.65 GPA with a double major in Communications and Political Science. Mezger (photo below) made the list with an impressive 3.78 GPA while majoring in Linguistics.

Nic's Night

By Jordan Moore on June 24, 2011 11:34 AM | 1 Comment

Nikola Vucevic lived his dream last night when the Philadelphia 76ers made him a first round pick in the 2011 NBA Draft.

"This was by far the greatest moment of my life," Vucevic told reporters. "I had to cry a little bit and hug my parents and my agent."

The Montenegro big man continued an impressive run of Trojan success by becoming the fifth first rounder in the last five years, which is tied for the fifth-most in the country. The NBA combine in Chicago made all the difference for the seven-footer.

"I liked him from the moment I saw him at the Chicago pre-draft camp," 76ers coach Doug Collins said in a media release. "He is a hard-working, skilled big man with the desire to succeed who gives us more size in the front court, which is a need. He is a player that we are ecstatic to have on our roster, and I look forward to coaching him."

Vucevic was not invited by the NBA to the green room, but he would not let that deter him from enjoying his moment on stage with commissioner David Stern. He bought a seat among the spectators and made sure he was in the house to hear his name called.

"I knew I was going to be in the first round, and I just wanted to be able to shake David Stern's hand," Vucevic said.

vucevic.stern.jpg

(Photos via OC Register)

ESPY Nom

By Jordan Moore on June 24, 2011 10:25 AM | No Comments

USC swimmer Katinka Hosszu is nominated for Best Female College Athlete at the 2011 ESPY's and you can vote her to victory.

Click here to vote for Katinka!!!

Hoszzu won the Honda Award as the NCAA's top female swimmer after capturing three individual titles at nationals. She is a two-time Olympian for her native Hungary and won a gold medal at the 2009 World Championships.

Philly's Finest

By Jordan Moore on June 23, 2011 5:40 PM | No Comments

USC big man Nikola Vucevic is headed to the Philadelphia 76ers as the #16 overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft.

Vucevic becomes the fifth Trojan first round draft pick in the last five years. He is the eighth highest drafted USC men's basketball player in the history of the program.

Here's a look at Vucevic's junior season during which he averaged 17.1 points per game and 10.3 rebounds per contest in 2010-11...

The Leaders of Troy

By Jordan Moore on June 23, 2011 2:30 PM | 1 Comment

USC athletics proudly boasts two dynasties as we continue to look back at the triumphs of 2010-11.

With nine USC national championships on his coaching resume, Jovan Vavic is the king of the college pool. He led men's water polo to a three-peat in 2010 and women's water polo to another Final Four in 2011.

Vavic (photo by Daily Trojan) was named the national coach of the year for the third season running.

Peter Smith is on a similarly historic run with Trojan men's tennis. With three straight NCAA trophies in the hopper, he is already eyeing a fourth with singles champ Steve Johnson and "Mr. Clutch" Daniel Nguyen coming back for their senior years.

In her 15th year, Andrea Gaston was named NGCA National Coach of the Year after a season in which she steered the women's golf program to a Pac-10 title and a regular season #1 ranking.

Bill Ferguson and USC men's volleyball went wire-to-wire in the regular season as the top team in the country. The Final Four coach was honored as the MPSF Coach of the Year.

On the women's volleyball side, Mick Haley is building a young program that pulled off a surprising run to the Final Four, which was his fifth trip as the Trojans' leader.

While Dave Salo deserves great credit for women's swimming and diving finishing third at nationals, diving coach Hongping Li won Pac-10 Coach of the Year.

Finally, 2010-11 ushered in the Lane Kiffin era in football. Plus, Lindsey Munday was hired to build the women's lacrosse program from scratch and Frank Cruz turned his interim gig into the head coach of USC baseball.

Capital One Cup

By Jordan Moore on June 23, 2011 1:09 PM | 2 Comments

In the inaugural Capital One Cup, USC women's athletics finished sixth in the nation, while Stanford took down the crown.

Women's volleyball earned 30 points towards the Women of Troy total of 72. Women's swimming and diving contributed 20 points; women's track and field added 10 points and women's golf and rowing added six each.

Final standings

1.) Stanford - 121 points
2.) Texas A&M - 112 points
3.) Cal - 106 points
4.) Florida - 86 points
5.) Notre Dame - 76 points
6.) USC - 72 points

64 women's programs earned points in the 13 eligible sports.

Morning Papers (6/23/11)

By Jordan Moore on June 23, 2011 11:02 AM | No Comments

NBA Draft day...

In case you missed it, don't forget to read Dave Dulberg's feature on Nikola Vucevic about his pre-draft preparation.
Pedro Moura has the latest update on Vucevic potentially sneaking into the lottery as well as a check on Alex Stepheson and Marcus Simmons.
Whitney Blaine has a Q&A with Vucevic for SCPlaybook.com.
Michael Lev has been posting Q&As with USC football assistant coaches including chatting with linebackers coach Joe Barry.
The USC compliance office posted a listing for a job opening.
Lisa Leslie, Cynthia Cooper and Tina Thompson are three of the 30 finalists for the WNBA's list of the greatest 15 players of all-time.
Former USC football player Chris Bocage is starring as a return specialist in the Arena Football League.

It's Nic's night...

The State of Troy: 2010-11 Recap

By Jordan Moore on June 22, 2011 3:34 PM | 3 Comments

Each month, we interview USC athletic director Pat Haden to keep you up to date on all the happenings around Heritage Hall.

Q.) How impressive is the USC men's tennis three-peat?

Peter Smith has had an incredible three-year run. Led by Steve Johnson, who won the NCAA singles championship, this may be the greatest run in collegiate tennis history. He has recruited solid kids and they have gotten better every year under his tutelage. With a lot of good players coming back, they have a chance to do it again.

Q.) What did you see from Frank Cruz this season that led you to hire him as the head baseball coach?

Frank Cruz is the kind of person we want working in the athletic department. He is a man of high character and integrity. As the season went along, the team played better. We finished seventh in the conference as opposed to 10th a year ago. If you look at the statistics, there was empirical proof that we were improving. The parents and kids love him. It is going to take us a while to get there since he inherited an awkward roster, but we think we have the right guy for the job. He is intent on proving us right.

Q.) What have you taken away from your first year as athletic director?

I am awe struck by the impressive student-athletes that we have with the emphasis on both sides of the student-athlete hyphen. Incredible students and incredible athletes. While football is in a state of flux, basketball and baseball are improving. The other sports are doing exceptionally well with 39 first-team All-Americans.

Q.) What kind of feedback have you received from the Trojan Family this year?

The fans and alums are embarrassed that an academic and athletic institution of our heritage is on NCAA probation. While everybody wants to win in all the sports that we play, they want to do it the right way. That is the reason that I was brought in. The fans rally around football the most. The expectations are so great around that program that they would like to see the loss totals from the last two years be righted.

Q.) How different will your second year be now that the NCAA appeal process is finally over?

There is certainty now. It makes it easier to plan obviously. We know what is in front of us as far as the three years of probation. We are not going to hang our heads. We are disappointed with the result of the appeal, but it is over. We are moving forward with the right football coaching staff to weather this storm. They have a plan to get us through the next few years. We are going to embrace it now and we are going to revel in the success that we are going to have going forward.

Building a Bridge

By Jordan Moore on June 22, 2011 3:01 PM | 2 Comments

The USC Summer Bridge program is a six-week residential immersion plan for incoming freshmen who may benefit from an early start to college.

The jump from high school to college is overwhelming for most USC students, but especially fall sport athletes whose schedules are packed from day one.

This week, eight football players, three women's basketball hoopsters and a men's basketball freshman are going through orientation and bouncing around Heritage Hall.

The student-athletes are enrolled immediately in two four-unit classes and academic workshops. The goal of the program is to promote self-confidence and a sense of belonging.

By the end of the summer, the freshmen will have built relationships with faculty, advisors and staff plus they will know their way around campus and understand the resources made available to them.

George Farmer (left) and Marqise Lee (right) are already assimilating to Troy.

Staff Changes

By Jordan Moore on June 22, 2011 2:17 PM | 1 Comment

The USC athletic department bids goodbye and good luck to a pair of behind-the-scenes soldiers this week.

Football and baseball trainer Chris Grosskopf (photo right) heads back to his native New York to work for a pharmaceutical company.

SC TV producer Rob McPherson (photo below), who makes so many of the highlight videos and features that you love to devour, took a Director of Programming position for a television network in Los Angeles.

We'll miss you both.

Fight on!

(Bottom photo by Jon SooHoo)

The Trojan Family Responds

By Jordan Moore on June 22, 2011 10:34 AM | 5 Comments

As Gary Klein documented in today's Los Angeles Times, the Trojan Family's loyalty has been tested in the wake of NCAA sanctions.

While the situation around Heritage Hall has been murky at times, the response has been clear. Athletic support group fundraising is down just 10% from the development peak during Pete Carroll's football dynasty.

"Through the recession, sanctions, an 8-5 season and no bowl games, we have seen nothing but loyalty," said senior associate athletic director Ron Orr who is in charge of athletic support group fundraising.

As we speak, they are hammering away at the new $70 million, 110,000 square-foot state-of-the-art John McKay Center. And on the university front, president C.L. Max Nikias has raised nearly a billion dollars in his first year.

While many universities and athletic departments would be shaken by NCAA upheaval, the Trojan foundation remains rock solid.

Haden on Stipends

By Jordan Moore on June 21, 2011 3:04 PM | 5 Comments

As he nears his one-year anniversary as USC's athletic director, Pat Haden wants to address what he feels is an injustice with the formula the NCAA uses to determine scholarship stipends for student-athletes.

"The NCAA formulas used to determine student-athlete stipends are not appropriate," Haden said. "Having interviewed 15 different athletes and broken down their stipend against their bills, they are left with about $5 per day for food. I just do not think that is right."

The current formula does not take into account the different costs associated with going to USC and living in Los Angeles as opposed to Washington State and a small town like Pullman.

"I would change the formula," said Haden. "If you used the 'cost-of-attendance' formula, I am told USC student-athletes would get about $3,300 more per year. Of course, it would go on the athletic department's budget. We can afford to do this, while some of the others cannot."

And of course, USC cannot make unilateral changes nor can the Pac-12 amend the rule for the conference.

"The NCAA has to do it. It is pushing the proverbial rock up the hill because some of the institutions cannot afford to do it."

Nevertheless, the USC athletic director will continue to push for reform in the hopes of improving the health and wellness of the student-athletes.

"In a year from now, our new TV contract is going to kick in with $20 million per year in revenue and it is not right to have a student-athlete tell me he or she is going hungry," said an impassioned Haden. "It is unconscionable."

Famous Photo

By Jordan Moore on June 21, 2011 2:17 PM | No Comments

The USC versus Notre Dame rivalry dates back to 1926 when the Irish came out to Los Angeles to take on the Trojans in what would become the greatest intersectional rivalry in college football.

A year later, the scene shifted to Chicago, where the two schools would square off in front of 120,000 fans at legendary Soldier Field. On the eve of the big game, they held a dinner at the Palmer House to hype up the USC/ND rivalry along with the Yale/Stanford match-up.

The public relations event was organized by Christy Walsh who was baseball's first agent. Walsh represented Notre Dame head coach Knute Rockne as well as Yankees superstars Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.

The Fighting Irish nipped the Trojans 7-6 the next day, but Howard Jones (photo right) responded by beating Notre Dame at the Coliseum the next season en route to the 1928 national championship, which was the first in school history.

Congratulations to Lorraine Maloney who was randomly selected from a large group of astute Trojan fans who named all the men in the picture below. Maloney won two suite tickets to the season opener as part of our Facebook contest.

From left to right in the famous photo below: Glenn "Pop" Warner (Stanford head coach), George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Knute Rockne, Christy Walsh, Lou Gehrig (donning the SC jersey), Howard Jones and Tad Jones (Yale head coach and Howard's younger brother).

Tennis All-Americans

By Jordan Moore on June 21, 2011 10:37 AM | 1 Comment

At one point in the season, Steve Johnson and Maria Sanchez were the #1 collegiate tennis players in the country simultaneously. Now, they both can share more All-America honors.

Johnson was named an ITA All-American for the fifth time (singles and doubles honors in 2009 and 2010), while Sanchez is now a three-time All-American after singles and doubles recognition this season.

Click here for the men's honors and click here for the women's honors.

Johnson is joined on the men's list by freshman Ray Sarmiento who secured his singles status by reaching the final 16 at NCAAs.

Sanchez brings along freshman doubles partner Kaitlyn Christian, who was also named the ITA Southwest Region Player to Watch.

With women's water polo still yet to dole out postseason awards, USC's 2010-11 first-team All-American tally is up to 39.

SC Classics: 1978 Nat'l Title

By Jordan Moore on June 20, 2011 4:02 PM | 2 Comments

In 1978, USC split the football national championship with Alabama despite beating the Tide in Birmingham by 10. The UPI poll voted the Trojans #1 after beating Michigan in the 1979 Rose Bowl, but the AP felt differently.

"Let me congratulate you on the great wisdom of the UPI Coaches' Poll," chided head coach John Robinson at the trophy presentation ceremony.

Click here for the complete menu of SC Classics.

Here are narrator Pat Haden and iconic voice Tom Kelly in some SC Classic footage detailing the big win over "Bear" Bryant's Alabama...

Reader Response: ESPN Trip

By Jordan Moore on June 20, 2011 3:47 PM | No Comments

As we documented, Matt Barkley took a trip to Bristol to appear on several ESPN platforms last week, which prompted a question from a dutiful reader.

"Who pays for the trip and expenses? I'm sure it's ESPN, why isn't it considered an extra benefit and in violation of NCAA rules?"

Actually, the USC athletic department paid for the trip, but the general point relates to the NCAA statute below, which our compliance department sent to us.

12.5.3 Media Activities

(b) Outside the Playing Season

Outside the playing season, a student-athlete may participate in media activities (e.g., appearance on radio, television, in films or stage productions or participation in writing projects) when such appearance or participation is related in any way to athletics ability or prestige, provided the student-athlete is eligible academically to represent the institution and does not receive any remuneration for such appearance or participation.

The student-athlete may not make any endorsement, expressed or implied, of any commercial product or service. The student-athlete may, however, receive legitimate and normal expenses directly related to such appearance or participation, provided the source of the expenses is the entity sponsoring the activity. (Revised: 1/16/93, 1/14/97)

Jaak Attack

By Jordan Moore on June 20, 2011 1:35 PM | No Comments

With three national championship rings in tow, men's tennis senior Jaak Poldma is walking into a bright future off the court.

The Estonian import earned an NCAA postgraduate scholarship ($7,500) for his tremendous work in the classroom at USC, where he graduated with a 3.65 GPA while double majoring in communications and political science.

Click here for the full story!

Poldma is the 51st Trojan postgraduate scholarship winner and its first since women's volleyball player Emily Adams in 2004. USC ranks in the top 10 all-time for NCAA postgraduate scholarships awarded.

Click here for our fun profile on Jaak Poldma!

Reader Response: Gymnastics

By Jordan Moore on June 20, 2011 12:00 PM | No Comments

In our recent discussion about the Pac-10 reaching 400 NCAA championships, we noted that USC now has 115 national championships, but they are all not recognized by the NCAA, which prompted a reader to ask about the Trojans' forgotten champ.

"I remember seeing in Heritage hall, in the room with all the championships on the wall (Varsity Lounge)... that we won men's gymnastics a looooong time ago... always wondered why they got rid of it." - Michael

USC had a men's gymnsatics program up until 1981 when it was disbanded for financial reasons. Women's gymnastics started up in 1976, but lasted only through the 1986 season.

"For the past several years, USC's athletic department has experienced a net operating loss," then athletic director Mike McGee said in a 1986 statement. "Several sports--including women's gymnastics--have therefore been made responsible for developing additional funding. Women's gymnastics was not able to develop a substantial level of financial support."

Click here for the archived LA Times article.

The only gymnastics heritage that survives is the 1962 men's gymnastics national championship. The squad was led by Robert Lynn who won four gold medals including the all-around at the NCAA finals.

You can click on the AP article to the right to make it full size.

Allice Loses Wife to Cancer

By Jordan Moore on June 17, 2011 4:44 PM | No Comments

Sharlene Allice, the wife of USC track and field head coach Ron Allice, succumbed to cancer today after a lengthy battle.

Click here for the complete story.

Allice has been the Director of Track and Field at Troy since 1995 and Sharlene has been by his side every step of the way.

Best of the Best

By Jordan Moore on June 17, 2011 2:54 PM | No Comments

In every sport, USC athletics features some of the top competitors on the collegiate landscape. Among that group this school year, a few elite student-athletes made national waves on the NCAA's fields, courts, links, tracks and pools.

USC had 38 first team All-Americans in 2010-11 with women's water polo yet to announce.

Swimmer Katinka Hosszu led the way for the Women of Troy by taking down the prestigious Honda Award as the top collegiate in her sport. She is just the 11th USC female athlete to be so honored.

Midseason, Steve Johnson and Maria Sanchez became the first tennis players from the same school to claim the #1 national ranking at the same time. Johnson would go on to win the NCAA singles championship.

Senior Murphy Troy capped his USC volleyball career as the National Player of the Year for his body of work leading the MPSF regular season champions.

Junior goalie Joel Dennerley anchored the now three-time defending national champion men's water polo team as the MPSF Player of the Year.

Academic superstar Lizette Salas became a four-time All-American women's golfer, while Freshman of the Year Sophia Popov won the Pac-10 individual championship just a week apart from sophomore Martin Trainer matching the feat for the men's team.

Popov is not the only Trojan with a bright future. Wide receiver Robert Woods, women's volleyball hitter Falyn Fonoimoana and swimmer Vladimir Morozov won conference Freshman of the Year awards.

Powerful senior Nia Ali closed her fifth and final year in style by winning the 100m hurdles and getting nominated for the Bowerman Award.

We are grateful to all 643 USC student-athletes who represented the Cardinal and Gold with pride this season. I can't wait to see what next year has in store.

SC Classics: Lindsey and Lott

By Jordan Moore on June 17, 2011 2:27 PM | 2 Comments

We discovered some great video in the archives profiling the 1980 football team, which was banned from going to a bowl game, but finished 8-2-1, including a 20-3 pasting of Notre Dame to cap the season.

Click here for the complete list of free SC Classics!

The 1980 squad was renowned for ferocious defense led by coordinator Don Lindsey who worked under legends like "Bear" Bryant, Lou Holtz, John McKay and John Robinson.

In the video, Lindsey introduces one of the greatest secondaries in college football history featuring senior safeties Ronnie Lott and Dennis Smith.

Video: Football 101

By Jordan Moore on June 17, 2011 12:09 PM | 1 Comment

As you can see in the thank you video below, "Football 101 for Ladies" was a rousing success.

Take a look...

Morning Papers (6/17/11)

By Jordan Moore on June 17, 2011 10:55 AM | 2 Comments

The week's news...

Given the all-around team success that we broke down yesterday, it is no surprise that USC is 12th in the Learfield Sports Directors' Cup. Click the link for standings.
d1june17.pdf
Lacrosse is one of the fastest rising sports in California and USC is leading the way, wrote Chris Erskine of the LA Times.
Matt Barkley has tweaked his throwing motion for 2011, reported Pedro Moura.
Michael Lev broke down a potential defensive switch for Devon Kennard.
Three Trojans made the Lindy's preseason All-Pac-12 team. Scott Wolf has the full list.
Barkley talked to Max Kellerman on the radio this week about how he has no regrets playing his college career at USC.
Whitney Blaine talked to freshman QB Cody Kessler about the Mark Sanchez comparisons.
"The Sports Curve" profiled USC football play-by-play man Pete Arbogast.
USC does not have any alums in the U.S. Open, but Hunter Mahan was a Trojan for a year before transferring to Oklahoma State. I only mention that as an excuse to show you this video featuring tour pros Mahan, Bubba Watson, Ben Crane and Rickie Fowler.

That's a Wrap!

By Jordan Moore on June 16, 2011 4:21 PM | 2 Comments

The 2010-11 USC athletics season is officially over...but not before the Trojans stocked the trophy cases in Heritage Hall.

The first year of the Pat Haden era ushered in two three-peats from men's water polo and men's tennis. Jovan Vavic and Peter Smith have built two of the most dominant programs in the country.

Men's tennis and men's water polo carried the torch, but several programs are following the flame.

Both volleyball teams made Final Four runs. The men's squad spent the entire regular season ranked #1, while women's volley has a youthful core that should be right back in the mix next season.

Coming off back-to-back national championships, women's water polo was in the Final Four yet again, which extended an eight-year run of NCAA tournament appearances.

On the links, the women's team boasted a #1 ranking after taking the Pac-10 championship just a week apart from men's golf grabbing a conference crown.

In the pool, women's swimming and diving placed third at NCAAs, while the men's team finished a solid seventh. And in choppier waters, women's rowing ranked fifth in the nation.

Men's basketball made the Big Dance for the fifth time in the last six years, while women's hoops made an impressive road run to the WNIT championship game.

Women's soccer set an attendance record in an electric Coliseum win over UCLA and then advanced to the second round of the postseason before losing to the eventual national champion.

And finally, the women's track and field team pushed the season over the finish line with a sixth place posting at nationals.

We'll list the individual success stories Friday, but two more team notes...

USC had 10 programs finish top seven in the nation.

USC won its fourth consecutive Gauntlet over UCLA and set a record for points by one school in the competition.

And now 2011-12...

Led by Lindsey Munday, women's lacrosse became USC's 20th program.

Join the Team!

By Jordan Moore on June 16, 2011 1:55 PM | No Comments

The USCTrojans.com roster has an opening for a producer/editor.

Here's the listing:

We provide video for our website and to our partners ESPN and Fox and soon to be Pac-12. Must have a knowledge/expertise of shooting sports on HD digital cameras and editing fluently on Final Cut Pro for creating web shows and highlights.

Applicant must also be very computer efficient and have an understanding of streaming LIVE sporting events over the internet using Flash Media Encoder and Inlet Encoders. In addition, an understanding of digital encoding and different codecs for streaming and uploading is key. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, Apple XSAN, XServe are a plus.

Click here to apply!

Draft Dreams

By Jordan Moore on June 16, 2011 10:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

When Nikola Vucevic announced at the Galen Center on March 25 that he would forgo his senior season and head for NBA pastures, there was an air of uncertainty hovering over the Serbian's decision.

Some said he wasn't ready to make the leap to the professional ranks; others said his draft ceiling was no higher than a second round pick. Yet, with exactly a week until the draft kicks off at Madison Square Garden, the seven-foot center has all but silenced the critics with his tireless work ethic and unique skill set.

"I have had a lot of time to work on my individual game and skills, and basically have tried to address every detail," Vucevic said about his pre-draft regimen. "I am a better shooter than I was, and overall just have more confidence than I did in college."

That confidence was put on display for all to see at the NBA's annual Rookie Combine held in Chicago last month.

From his smooth shooting stroke to his seven-foot-four wingspan to the rare athleticism that defies his size, Vucevic's five-day performance quickly catapulted him up scouts' draft boards and into lottery contention.

"This was nothing new for me," said Vucevic on his play at the NBA Combine. "I knew that I was better than people were giving me credit for. And I have come out from day one and just been ready to workout and help myself in any way I can."

While Vucevic may have helped himself out in Chicago, USC's leading scorer (17.1 ppg), rebounder (10.3 rpg) and shot blocker (1.3 bpg) in 2011 still has plenty of work to do.

"I am still working on my NBA three-point shot (which has an arc that is three feet longer than the college game), defending smaller guys in front of me and getting more explosive and quicker at the basket."

Over the course of the last month, the 20-year-old has worked out for nine NBA teams that hold picks between 7th and 27th overall (Bobcats, Celtics, Kings, Knicks, Nets, Nuggets, Rockets, Sixers and Spurs). His whirlwind tour across the NBA landscape will conclude today in Portland when he meets with the Trail Blazers.

It hasn't been all work for the native of Bar, Montenegro, as he got a chance to meet his childhood idol, Michael Jordan, during his trip to Charlotte.

"I was just really happy, it's something I've wanted to do since I was little," said Vucevic on meeting His Airness. "We were just working out and doing some drills, and all of a sudden he walks in. I wasn't nervous actually. It made me want to go harder because I mean he is the best ever. If anything it served as motivation for all of us."

Whether Vucevic is chosen by Jordan's Bobcats isn't of much concern for the 2010 Pac-10 Most Improved Player. He has only one goal next week as he waits to hear his name called in New York City.

"I would just like to be in the first round," said Vucevic on his wish for draft night. "I just can't wait for the draft. When I hear my name called it will just be the happiest moment of my life."

(Photos courtesy of LA Times and OC Register)

"The Film Session"

By Jordan Moore on June 15, 2011 5:25 PM | No Comments

Coach O is a master of motivation.

Check out the latest GetTrojanTix.com spot as Orgeron gets a group of special guests fired up.

Photo Gallery: Football 101

By Jordan Moore on June 15, 2011 4:03 PM | No Comments

The reintroduction of "Football 101 for Ladies" was a huge hit Tuesday as the women of the Trojan Family enjoyed their film sessions with the coaches, got to dress safety Jawanza Starling and even ran around on the famed Coliseum turf.

Here are Pierson Clair's photos of the day including the tackle and touchdown that capped the highly competitive scrimmage...

(Note: If you are an attendee who would like to purchase or download a photo, click here.)

Miller Time

By Jordan Moore on June 15, 2011 3:06 PM | No Comments

I saw this photo hanging up in Pat Haden's office and thought you'd enjoy it.

Cheryl Miller is in any argument as the greatest women's basketball player ever. She is one of only two Women of Troy student-athletes to win the Honda-Broderick Cup as the top collegiate woman athlete of the year (Angela Williams in 2001-02) and a four-time All-American.

Best and Brightest

By Jordan Moore on June 15, 2011 2:08 PM | No Comments

USC senior golfer Lizette Salas grabbed her second Pac-10 Player of the Year award, while newcomer Sophia Popov was honored as the conference Freshman of the Year.

Both golfers were named 1st team All-Americans.

Salas (photo) is now USC women's golf's first four-time All-American and she is the third straight player of the year after winning the award last year and Jennifer Song in 2009. Popov joins Salas and Song in a triumvirate of Trojans to win Pac-10 Freshman of the Year.

Click here for the full story!

Sign Language

By Jordan Moore on June 14, 2011 4:18 PM | 2 Comments

USC versus Oregon on November 19 in Eugene.

Matt Barkley and Darron Thomas today at ESPN.

Traditions

By Jordan Moore on June 14, 2011 4:01 PM | No Comments

EA Sports "NCAA Football Traditions" is running a bracket style tournament for fans to vote on their school's heritage.

In the first round, USC's Traveler and Tommy Trojan battle favored (not by me) Clemson's Howard's Rock.

Vote here for USC!

In the Herd

By Jordan Moore on June 14, 2011 3:57 PM | 1 Comment

During his tour of Bristol, Matt Barkley stepped inside "The Herd" to join host Colin Cowherd in studio.

Click here to listen!

Famous Fathers

By Jordan Moore on June 14, 2011 11:07 AM | No Comments

The USC baseball program featured a pair of players with famous last names in the hardball community this past season in Jordan Hershiser (son of Dodgers pitching great Orel) and Shane Boras (son of super agent Scott).

Assuming he does not sign with a big league club after being drafted last week, Ryan Garvey will be the next pedigreed prospect with big shoes to fill. The Trojan signee is the son of Steve Garvey, one of the most popular Dodgers of all-time.

Here is a recent feature on the father-son tandem produced by KCAL sports...

The Other SC

By Jordan Moore on June 14, 2011 10:23 AM | 4 Comments

USC QB Matt Barkley is making his way through the famed ESPN "car wash" today, which includes appearances on SportsCenter.

Here is the early morning video in case you missed it live...

Keck Gift

By Jordan Moore on June 13, 2011 3:50 PM | 1 Comment

USC president C. L. Max Nikias announced a $150 million naming gift from the W. M. Keck Foundation today which will accelerate the progress of Trojan medical research and education.

Click here for the full story.

"This $150 million gift from the Keck Foundation will have a profound impact on our community and our world, today and for generations to come. It will be a catalyst for dramatic discoveries and developments in medical research, teaching and patient care," Nikias said.

In his first year, Nikias has overseen a dramatic fundraising effort, which is nearing $1 billion.

Streak Busted

By Jordan Moore on June 13, 2011 3:13 PM | 3 Comments

In the French Open semifinals, Roger Federer ended Novak Djokovic's 41-match win streak to begin the 2011 season.

Just a week or so later, USC NCAA singles champion Steve Johnson saw his winning streak cap at 39 when he lost a three set final to Daniel Kosakowski in the final of the Sacramento Futures tournament. Understandably, Johnson is exhausted, but he will still feature on the pro circuit this summer at the U.S. Open and likely the Farmers Classic in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, national title hero Daniel Nguyen and teammate Michael Grant posted a picture of their practice session in Barcelona, Spain.

Barkley in Bristol

By Jordan Moore on June 13, 2011 1:18 PM | 2 Comments

USC QB Matt Barkley is headed to ESPN headquarters in Connecticut for a Tuesday "car wash" through the worldwide leader's various platforms. He will be joined in Bristol by Oregon QB Darron Thomas and Arizona WR Juron Criner.

Here's #7's schedule...

(Eastern times)

10:20 a.m. - First Take (Live)

10:40 a.m. - SportsCenter (Live)

11:00 a.m. - SportsCenter Social Media

11:20 a.m. - ESPN Rise

11:40 a.m. - Scott Van Pelt Show (Taping)

11:50 a.m. - The Herd with Colin Cowherd (Live)

12:40 p.m. - SportsCenter

1:00 p.m. - Year of the Quarterback

1:32 p.m. - 710 ESPN LA Radio

2:00 p.m. - College Football Live (Live to tape)

3:00 p.m. - SportsNation (Live to tape)

3:20 p.m. - SportsCenter (Live)

Individual Accolades

By Jordan Moore on June 13, 2011 10:38 AM | No Comments

While banking points to strengthen the team's performance, USC track and field boasted 11 first team All-Americans based on individual successes at the NCAA championships.

Senior Nia Ali was the only Trojan to place first in an event after setting a personal best 12.63 in the 100m hurdles. She also scored for the squad with a 6th place leap in the high jump.

"Nia Ali leaves as an All-American, an NCAA champion and second to Virginia Powell in school history in the 100m hurdles," said head coach Ron Allice. "Anytime you run under 12.7 in the hurdles you are elite, not just collegiately, but on the national level. I think she has a chance to do well at the professional level."

Brendan Ames bronzed a third place finish in the 110m hurdles to ink the best performance on the men's side.

"Brendan Ames is a great success story," said Allice. "He was a national junior champion out of high school and then struggled two seasons at Kentucky before he came to USC. He received great tutelage from coach Tommie White and has made tremendous progress, becoming a two-time All-American and had he not gotten injured in the long jump at the 2010 Pac-10 Championships, who is to say that he wouldn't have been an All-American last season, too."

Click here for the complete list of USC track and field 2011 All-Americans.

Track Final

By Jordan Moore on June 13, 2011 10:20 AM | No Comments

The 2010-11 USC athletics season came to an end this past weekend as the men's and women's track field teams closed their campaigns at nationals.

Behind Nia Ali's first place finish in the 100m hurdles (pictured below), the women's squad placed a solid 6th just a year after not scoring at NCAAs.

"Since I've been at USC the women's side had never gone scoreless until last season and they did a good job of getting back to being one of the top programs in the country," said head coach Ron Allice. "We have most of them coming back and a very good recruiting class to complement them which bodes well for the future."

The men's team placed 12th overall which snapped a string of six consecutive top 10 finishes.

Click here for the full recap.

Steady at the Top

By Jordan Moore on June 10, 2011 2:36 PM | No Comments

Lane Kiffin will appear in front of the NCAA Committee on Infractions this weekend in Indianapolis to answer questions about his tenure as the University of Tennessee head football coach as part of a larger investigation into the Volunteers athletic department.

"It's a bit part, not a starring role," USC athletic director Pat Haden told the Los Angeles Times.

While Kiffin played a starring role in Knoxville, he has stayed out of the spotlight in his year plus back in Los Angeles.

LA Times columnist Bill Plaschke has taken note that the USC head coach has dropped the "swagger" in favor of "steadiness."

(Photo by John McGillen)

Waiting Game

By Jordan Moore on June 10, 2011 1:51 PM | 1 Comment

Seven current Trojans were selected earlier this week in the Major League Baseball draft and seven more incoming signees had their names called during the three day event.

While head coach Frank Cruz waits on the potential return of redshirt sophomore Shane Boras (39th round) and maybe even junior Austin Wood (6th round), he also has to sweat out the decisions of their recruited replacements.

Of the 2011 class, 3B Travis Harrison (pictured right) is the most highly touted prospect. He was drafted in the supplemental portion of the first round by the Minnesota Twins.

SS Christian Lopes (7th round), LHP Stephen Tarpley (8th round), OF Ryan Garvey (15th round), RHP Wyatt Strahan (27th round), 3B Trent Boras (30th round) and SS Dante Flores (41st round) will all choose between big league signing bonuses and the college experience.

The Trojan recruits have until August 15 to make up their minds.

Ryan Garvey is the son of Dodger great Steve Garvey.

Sneak Peek

By Jordan Moore on June 10, 2011 11:45 AM | No Comments

We are working on two more GetTrojanTix.com commercials this week in the vein of "The Briefcase" and "The Water Cooler."

USC football student manager Brian Wagner helped us out yesterday and snapped this picture as a teaser...

Tracking Points

By Jordan Moore on June 10, 2011 10:30 AM | No Comments

Men's hammer thrower Trey Henderson and women's high jumper Nia Ali earned themselves All-American honors and their teams valuable points for their fourth and sixth place finishes, respectively.

On day two of the NCAA track meet, Brendan Ames (110m high hurdles), Jessica Davis (200m) and Aareon Payne (200m) advanced to the finals of the four day event.

Click here for the complete Day 2 recap.

With his fourth place finish, Henderson, who came in as a football player, completed an accomplished throwing career at USC. He battled yesterday through a bad back and sickness to bank five points for the men's team on the strength of his final throw.

"It was a phenomenal performance for Trey considering the fact that he is injured and has been sick, and to come through on his last throw like that shows how mentally tough he is," said USC throws coach Dan Lange.

Promo Time

By Jordan Moore on June 9, 2011 3:40 PM | No Comments

Like everyone else, ESPN is gearing up for another exciting college football season. The Gameday crew were shooting a new open and some promos this week and asked for Trojan icons, the Song Girls and the Drum Major, to help out.

Before you scroll down to see the pics, check out this crazy video of a camel getting loose on set.

Mascot Madness

The Song Girls trail country stars Big and Rich.

Top Dog

By Jordan Moore on June 9, 2011 2:43 PM | No Comments

To the winner, go the spoils...

USC tennis national champion Steve Johnson was named the 2011 ITA Men's College Player of the Year. He is the second Trojan in as many years to grab the honor joining former teammate Robert Farah.

Johnson defeated Tennessee's Rhyne Williams to win the NCAA singles' title just a week after helping USC win a third straight national championship.

(Photo by OC Register)

Leaning on Leinart

By Jordan Moore on June 9, 2011 11:57 AM | 2 Comments

Heisman winner Matt Leinart was the leader of the 2004 team that had their BCS title stripped this week.

"In reality, I don't think anyone can take the championship away from us," the Texans QB told SportsCenter.

Crystal ball or not, Leinart will go down as one of the greatest college quarterbacks of all-time. The three-time All-American was 37-2 as a starter (pre-vacated wins for sanctions) and set 16 school records during his career.

His 99 career touchdown passes are a Pac-10 record.

When he was back on campus for the Spring Game, Leinart chatted it up with athletic director Pat Haden for USCTrojans.com.

Fast Start

By Jordan Moore on June 9, 2011 10:40 AM | 2 Comments

The NCAA track and field championships are just a day old, but the Trojans have already advanced three individuals and the women's 4x100m relay team to the finals.

On the oval, sprinters Joey Hughes and Josh Mance progressed to Friday's 400m final after posting the 4th and 6th best times, respectively. Mance set a personal record and a USC freshman record with his 45.29 time.

Click here for the full recap of Day 1 action!

Dalilah Muhammad became the first Women of Troy member to qualify for a final at the meet with a personal record in the women's 400m intermediate hurdles.

Plenty more Trojans performances to follow on Day 2...

Mance and Hughes will run for points Friday.

Hard Road

By Jordan Moore on June 8, 2011 4:45 PM | No Comments

Kevin O'Neill is preparing his men's basketball team to run a gauntlet next season.

The hoops schedule is not officially finalized (one date TBD), but the home fans will be treated to showcase match-ups, while the players will be battle-tested come conference play.

"This will be by far the most difficult schedule in my 11 years here," tweeted associate head coach Bob Cantu.

The Galen Center will come alive on December 22 for a showdown with the Kansas Jayhawks, but the home slate also includes major conference battles with Georgia, New Mexico and Texas Christian. On the road, the young Trojans will trip to San Diego State, UNLV and Minnesota plus they could face likely preseason #1 North Carolina in a holiday tournament.

While the front court will be filled by newcomers or youngsters, the ball should be in good hands with senior Jio Fontan and experienced sophomore Maurice Jones running the back court. They will need steadiness and security to navigate a schedule loaded with land mines.

Fontan's leadership will be key.

First to 400

By Jordan Moore on June 8, 2011 1:16 PM | 2 Comments

With Arizona State's softball national championship victory last night, the Pac-10 became the first conference to reach 400 NCAA team titles.

Of the quadruple century, the Trojans have contributed 93 NCAA trophies, which is third behind UCLA (107) and Stanford (101).

Worth noting, the NCAA does not recognize national champions in division-1 football (USC has 11) and 11 other older Trojan titles (2 men's volleyball, 5 women's tennis, 3 women's volleyball and 1 women's water polo).

Click here for the full story.

Men's tennis leads the way with 53 titles including 19 from USC.

Staffing Up

By Jordan Moore on June 8, 2011 11:16 AM | No Comments

The USC women's lacrosse program is still a long way away from competition, but head coach Lindsey Munday is showing that competitiveness is a trait that will characterize her teams.

With her first two hires, Munday brought in former Northwestern teammate Hilary Bowen, who once played a season with a torn ACL in her knee, and former college opponent Devon Wills who stars for Team USA alongside her new boss.

The head coach introduced her deputies to us this week...

Stocking Up

By Jordan Moore on June 8, 2011 10:39 AM | No Comments

The USC women's volleyball program returns all the core talent from last year's Final Four squad and is now adding a top 10 recruiting class to push the vets.

Click here for the breakdown of the incoming freshmen.

"I think for what our needs were this season, we got just about everything we needed to fit around our current squad," said head coach Mick Haley.

The Women of Troy bring back three All-Americans in seniors Alex Jupiter, Kendall Bateman and Lauren Williams, so expect a lofty preseason ranking and the highest postseason expectations.

Jupiter will be a national player of the year candidate.

MLB Draft Day 2

By Jordan Moore on June 7, 2011 3:59 PM | 1 Comment

While the USC baseball program did not boast any first round draft picks Monday night, they made up for it by showing off their strength in numbers on day two.

As expected, Trojan slugger Ricky Oropesa was the first name off USC's board as the 116th overall pick (3rd round) by the San Francisco Giants.

Next up, fireballer Austin Wood was selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 6th round and then senior Logan Odom (pictured) defied the projections as the Anaheim club picked USC's Sunday starter 60 picks after the Trojans' Saturday pitcher.

Wood and Odom are not the only USC players to join each other in big league organizations. Ace right-hander Andrew Triggs will team up with Oropesa in San Francisco.

In a great story, closer Chad Smith, who saw his final Trojan campaign cut short due to Tommy John surgery, was still drafted by the Detroit Tigers. Finally, senior leader Joe DePinto was selected by the Chicago White Sox.

Here's the full list through day two...

Round 3 (116th overall) - Ricky Oropesa, Giants

Round 6 (195th overall) - Austin Wood, Angels

Round 8 (255th overall) - Logan Odom, Angels

Round 17 (527th overall) - Chad Smith, Tigers

Round 21 (651st overall) - Joe DePinto, White Sox

Round 21 (657th overall) - Andrew Triggs, Giants

Closing the Show

By Jordan Moore on June 7, 2011 2:21 PM | No Comments

The 2010-11 USC athletics season has one final act remaining as the men's and women's track and field teams run, jump and throw for national glory in Des Moines, IA, from June 8-11.

The Trojans had 19 student-athletes (10 men, nine women) qualify for NCAA's in 15 different events with 20 total chances to score points for the respective teams.

The women's squad is led by redshirt senior Nia Ali who will compete in the 100m high hurdles and the high jump. She won the Pac-10 title for the 100m high hurdles and was named to the Bowerman watch list as one of the top 10 female track athletes in the country.

Freshman Jessica Davis (pictured) will have the most chances to earn points for the women's team as she is entered in three different events (100m, 200m and 4x100m).

Click here for the full story on the women's track and field squad.

The men's program boasts 26 national championships which is more than twice as many as any other school (Arkansas - 12) and the Trojans expect to score highly in this meet led by Pac-10 champion Trey Henderson (hammer throw) and an elite group of sprinters.

Senior 110m hurdlers Brendan Ames (pictured) and Oscar Spurlock will battle each other as the third and fourth ranked competitors in the nation. The 4x400m relay team featuring Joey Hughes and Josh Mance is expected to challenge for first place.

Click here for the full story on the men's track and field squad.

You can watch the meet live on NCAA.com, but we'll keep you up to date on any Trojan success stories.

(Photo by Daily Trojan)

Facebook Contest

By Jordan Moore on June 7, 2011 1:54 PM | 2 Comments

We are running a contest to give away two suite seats (game tickets + free food) to the USC football season opener against Minnesota on September 3.

Click here to enter!!!

The contest revolves around this picture, which we will explain further when the winner has been chosen.

Trojan Look-A-Likes

By Jordan Moore on June 7, 2011 12:22 PM | 1 Comment

At last week's Coaches Tour stop in Manhattan Beach, USC hoops forward Garrett Jackson suggested that head coach Kevin O'Neill reminded him of Ben Franklin.

We had previously put Coach KO up against Larry David, but here's a side-by-side of the man who rocks bifocals and the man who invented them.

Morning Papers (6/7/11)

By Jordan Moore on June 7, 2011 10:31 AM | No Comments

Busy week in Trojan news for June...

We'll have an MLB draft recap later today, but Pedro Moura listed some more potential Trojan draftees in his baseball preview.
He also checked in on the whereabouts of former USC shortstop Grant Green.
Staying on ESPN.com, Mark Kreidler wants the Trojan fans to know that this too shall pass.
Like many of you, Arash Markazi does not need a trophy to know who won the 2004 national championship.
Scott Wolf was not surprised by the BCS news.
Lane Kiffin's former boss Mike Hamilton resigned as the University of Tennessee athletic director today. "It was saddening to hear the news this morning about Mike's resignation," Kiffin said. "My family and I are extremely grateful for the opportunity Mike afforded us at Tennessee. We really valued the support we received from him and his wife, Beth, and we wish them the best in the future."
Former USC assistant Todd McNair is suing the NCAA over the Reggie Bush case, according to the Associated Press.
Michael Lev compliments Matt Barkley for his tremendous leadership in times of crisis.
USC has returned the school's copy of Reggie Bush's Heisman Trophy, but the former Trojan running back has not returned his statue according to the Heisman Trust.
The Trojans emphasized special teams last year and it paid off in the field position game. USC ranked fifth in the nation in field position advantage in 2010. Here is an ESPN Insider story with more.
Our old friend Whitney Blaine has a story on DB Drew McAllister's special relationship with his mom.
The Trojan Family Magazine is now available online. Here is the summer issue.
More to come later, but congratulations to USC slugger Ricky Oropesa who was selected 116th overall (3rd round) by the San Francisco Giants today.

Big League Bound

By Jordan Moore on June 6, 2011 4:18 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

With the Major League Baseball Draft set to begin tonight in Secaucus, NJ, here's a preview of where some of USC baseball's names to know might land over the next few days:

Ricky Oropesa - 1B

Scouting Report: Statistically speaking, Oropesa's 2011 season (.322 batting average with seven home runs and 44 RBIs) in cardinal and gold was not the finest of his college career, but at six-foot-three, 230 pounds, there is no denying that he has a pro-ready body and a bat to go with it.

While the Herculian power USC fans became accustomed to was in slight decline this past season, Oropesa's combined 33 home runs his freshman and sophomore years were by no means an aberration. When it comes to the junior slugger, numbers don't tell the whole story as opposing managers and pitchers approached the 2010 Baseball America second team All-American very cautiously in 2011.

In addition to the power hitter type frame he has worked tirelessly on during his time as a Trojan, Oropesa (tied for 5th all-time on USC's home run list) possesses very quick hands and raw natural power to all fields regardless of whether he is using a metal or wood bat- as he displayed leading the Cape Cod League last summer with seven long balls.

Add to the mix a very strong throwing arm and a glove which will only continue to get better, and it's hard not to get exited about what the future holds for the blue-collar Oropesa.

Assets: Pole-to-pole power, capitalizes on mistake pitches, plus arm as a first baseman or as a potential corner outfielder, work ethic

Needs to improve on: Hitting for contact on breaking balls, plate presence against left-handed pitchers, softening up his feet on defense

Thoughts from Coach Cruz: "No matter what anyone says he has some of the top power in the country with the bat. People can't ignore that. Not to mention, he has one of the best arms in the country. He has the ability to become a Gold Glove first baseman at the next level."

Projection: Look for him to be selected early this week, likely between the sandwich round and the 3rd round.

Alex Sherrod - OF

Scouting Report: In just three years, Sherrod has been a model of consistency and growth as an everyday player in USC's outfield. The 2011 season was no exception for the native of Marietta, GA.

At the dish, Sherrod's poise and uncanny bat speed led to career highs this year in batting average (.318), home runs (6), runs (28), RBIs (35) and slugging percentage (.486).

Defensively through his first three seasons, Sherrod has just one career error to go along with an astounding 15 outfield assists.

Assets: Bat-speed generated power, plus arm and terrific range in the outfield

Needs to work on: Hitting the ball to all fields and speed on the basepaths

Thoughts from Coach Cruz: "It's not like he is the greatest runner, it's not like he has all of these great tools. But he is just very serviceable. And that has made him a huge part of our team."

Projection: Sherrod's junior season put him on the map amongst MLB scouts, but don't expect him to be chosen until Wednesday. He could be selected anywhere from rounds in the mid-30s to the mid-40s- an indication that maybe another year at USC would do wonders for his stock.

Andrew Triggs - RHP

Scouting Report: Heading into 2011, the major question mark surrounding Triggs was whether or not he could stay healthy for the entirety of his junior season. After a rotator cuff injury on his right shoulder claimed the final two months of his 2010 campaign, the right-hander decided to return to school despite being chosen in the 24th round by the Cleveland Indians last summer.

In 14 starts this season, he put to rest any fears about a bum shoulder. Pitching in arguably the toughest conference in collegiate baseball, Triggs excelled to the tune of a 5-4 record with a 3.97 ERA and three complete games.

While USC's fourth-year captain also had Tommy John surgery during his high school career, you wouldn't know it from the movement on his sinking fastball which tops out at 94-95 MPH- drawing comparisons to the one thrown by former Cy Young winner Brandon Webb. He combines that with a plus slider that tends to hover in the mid-80s.

Assets: Two plus pitches (sinker and slider), experience in pressure-filled situations and command of both sides of the plate

Needs to work on: Composure on the mound is an area he can improve on at the next level.

Thoughts from Coach Cruz: "He always came in and answered the bell. To pitch in the Pac-10 on Friday isn't an easy feat. You are throwing against potential first-rounders and really good pitchers all year. I think he is going to be one of the sleepers in the draft, and rise up quickly through the minor leagues."

Projection: The Indians drafted Triggs in the 24th round last year despite health concerns. Now that he has clearly shown that days of the injury bug are long behind him, look for Triggs' stock to rise somewhere between the 14th and 18th rounds.

Austin Wood - RHP

Scouting Report: Although he spent only one season in a Trojan uniform (transferred from St. Petersburg Community College), Wood illustrated why Baseball America ranked him as the eight best junior college player in the country in 2010. At six-foot-four, 220 pounds, Wood has a power arm to match his imposing frame, throwing his fastball anywhere from 92-98 MPH to go with a mid-80s changeup and a 75-79 MPH sweeping slider.

Although he went just 5-7 with a 5.61 ERA in 2011, Wood's work against wood bats in the 2010 Cape Cod Summer League (3-0, 0.59 ERA and an All-Star Game appearance) will surely ease scouts' minds when it comes to any perceived shortcomings he had this past season at USC.

Assets: Major league-ready body, prior success against wood bats and a strong four-seam fastball

Needs to work on: Consistency with the fastball on the inner and outer half of the plate, developing his secondary pitches (changeup, curveball and slider)

Thoughts from Coach Cruz: "He has a very magnetic personality. I thought his personality really helped to change the culture of our team this past year. Not to mention having a guy like that go out there every Saturday like we did, you always knew you had a real good to chance to win."

Projection: Last summer, Wood was drafted in the 4th round by the Tampa Bay Rays. Look for his draft stock to stay about same, as he could go anywhere from the 4th to 7th rounds.

BCS Stripped

By Jordan Moore on June 6, 2011 4:12 PM | 5 Comments

As expected, the BCS voted to vacate the 2004 national championship and strip USC of the 2005 title game victory over Oklahoma.

"The BCS alerted us today that their presidents have voted to vacate USC's 2005 BCS Championship Game victory," athletic director Pat Haden said. "This was not an unexpected outcome. We will comply with all requirements mandated by the result of this BCS vote."

Click the link for the full story.
BCS Vacates USC 04_05 Championship.doc

Technically, USC also has to vacate their appearance in the 2006 BCS title game, which was a loss to Texas, so the Trojans had one loss removed from the record books today.

However, USC is still regarded as the 2004 national champions since the AP decided not to vacate its title.

Reader Response: Marc Tyler

By Jordan Moore on June 6, 2011 10:46 AM | No Comments

In response to a reader question, we have nothing new to add to Gary Klein's story on Marc Tyler's disciplinary situation involving two alleged off-the-field incidents.

The redshirt junior running back released this statement, "It would not be appropriate for me to comment while I await the result of the Student Affairs hearing except to say that I regret my actions, I have apologized to all parties and I have sought counseling both within and outside the university."

Tyler led USC with 913 yards rushing last season.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Dean of Officials

By Jordan Moore on June 6, 2011 10:25 AM | 1 Comment

Pac-10 officiating has been a sore subject for conference football fans, so Larry Scott has made addressing the problem an early priority in his tenure. Today, he hired NFL referee Tony Corrente as the Coordinator of Football Officiating to oversee and implement change in the officiating program.

Corrente takes over for Mike Pereira, who filled the role on an interim basis since February and will remain on as a consultant.

"Tony Corrente has extensive experience in both college football and the NFL and has earned the reputation as one of the most respected leaders in officiating," Pac-10 Commissioner Larry Scott said. "With numerous NFL postseason assignments in his background, including the Super Bowl, Tony has worked at the very highest levels in the sport. We are very fortunate to have him leading our new football officiating program."

As Scott said, Corrente is a renowned NFL ref, so if you don't know the name, you may recognize him.

He refereed Super Bowl XLI between the Colts and Bears.

(Photo by PRPhotos.com)

New Network

By Jordan Moore on June 6, 2011 10:11 AM | No Comments

With college football spilling all over the TV guide in recent years, the Trojans have played on TBS, Versus and now FX.

Syracuse at USC on September 17 has been officially set to kickoff at 5 p.m. and will be broadcast on FX.

The only remaining football game without a start time is USC hosting Arizona on October 1. Click here for the full schedule.

The Trojans tee it up in 89 days!

The Year of the QB

By Jordan Moore on June 3, 2011 2:42 PM | 2 Comments

The Pac-10 has long been known as a quarterback factory. The conference boasted seven (eight if you count Utah's Alex Smith) NFL opening day starters under center last year, which culminated in Cal's Aaron Rodgers winning the Super Bowl MVP.

Going into the inaugural Pac-12 football season, the best gunslingers reside out west. In his initial "Big Board," Mel Kiper projects Stanford's Andrew Luck and USC's Matt Barkley as two of the three best overall prospects in the nation. Oklahoma's Landry Jones is the next quarterback on most lists, but Arizona's Nick Foles is not far behind.

Of course, the NFL is only interested in pro-style QBs, but Oregon's Darron Thomas is considered a frontrunner in any Heisman conversation.

Meanwhile, Utah's Jordan Wynn, Washington State's Jeff Tuel and Oregon State's Ryan Katz play outside the spotlight, but they can light up any stadium. Only Cal and UCLA seem unsettled at the position as fall camp approaches, while Washington is the only program to lose an entrenched starter in Jake Locker.

The league is loaded with experienced talent.

Thomas, Katz and Tuel can build on a full year of starts. Barkley, Wynn and Luck are still only juniors.

If you cannot defend the pass in year one of the Pac-12, you will be found out.

Relive the Drama

By Jordan Moore on June 3, 2011 2:22 PM | 2 Comments

SC TV put together a dramatic highlight video of the USC men's tennis run to a third straight national championship with behind-the-scenes video and the post-match celebration.

Caution: You will get goosebumps...

Hall of Bam

By Jordan Moore on June 3, 2011 2:07 PM | No Comments

Pioneering USC FB Sam "Bam" Cunningham is set to be enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, IN, on July 16.

The event is open to the ticketed public complete with autograph sessions and the blazer presentation.

Click here for more details.

Cunningham will become the 29th Trojan football player enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Center of Attention

By Jordan Moore on June 3, 2011 11:13 AM | No Comments

Nikola Vucevic is the best center prospect to come out of the collegiate ranks this season.

While it will take years to make that statement a fact, the draft experts are making that point loud and clear as the Trojan big man continues to impress scouts and team executives.

Here is the latest projection from ESPN's Chad Ford:

"USC big man Nikola Vucevic continues to impress NBA teams with some excellent workouts, including a standout session with the San Antonio Spurs. It sounds like Vucevic is seriously in the picture as early as the 16th pick to Philadelphia, and he probably won't slide past the Spurs."

The Champ's Future

By Jordan Moore on June 3, 2011 9:00 AM | 2 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

While the last two weeks have been nothing short of a dream come true for USC tennis star Steve Johnson, mere days after capturing the NCAA Singles Championship (the school's first men's singles title since 1996), the junior is already looking ahead to his future.

Although in three short years Johnson has won four National Championships (three team titles and the individual one he took home after defeating Tennessee's Rhyne Williams on Sunday), Trojan fans can breathe a sigh of relief as he will return for his senior season before making the leap to the professional ranks.

In Johnson's eyes, a return to Troy next season gives both him and his teammates a unique opportunity to join elite company as the third team in NCAA history to win four straight men's tennis team national championships joining Stanford (1995-98) and George Toley's USC squads (1966-69).

"We have a very special opportunity in front of us right now, because there has only been one team in history (since the tournament scoring format changed in 1977) to win four in a row," Johnson said on trying to win the program's 20th National Championship next year. "It's such a special opportunity to have the chance to be the second team ever to do that. No one can really take that away from us."

While the goal in the year to come will undoubtedly revolve around adding two more titles to his already robust resume, Johnson believes another 365 days training with his teammates under USC coach Peter Smith provides him a chance to refine his game in an environment that is both competitive and comfortable.

"My fitness has gotten a lot better this year, but still there is a difference between being the best in college and being one of the best in the world," said Johnson. "That's something I am going to have to really keep pushing myself to get better at. I need to get quicker, faster and stronger."

Even as other aspects of his game came into form this spring en route to a 35-match win streak and the eventual NCAA crown, the native of Orange, CA admits there is still room for improvement.

"I spent a lot of time this year working on my serve, my backhand and my forehand," said Johnson. "It's the best they have ever been, but I feel as though they can continue to get better. I would like to try and get my backhand up to the level my forehand is at right now. For me it's all about continuing to go forward."

The forward-thinking Johnson, who became the first Trojan to win both the NCAA team and NCAA singles titles in the same year since the dual-match format was implemented to decide the team championships, will have a chance to showcase his pro-ready skills at the US Open in August. Every year, the NCAA singles champion automatically earns a ticket to Arthur Ashe Stadium to play in the grand slam tournament.

While growing up Johnson idolized the great Pete Sampras, the 2011 Pac-10 Player of the Year isn't quick to compare his game to stars who are currently taking the pro circuit by storm like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. But with the lack of American presence on the men's side these days, Johnson hopes he can help his country grow the sport once he turns pro.

"It's an exciting role," said Johnson on the potential of improving the quality of tennis in the United States. "If I can continue on and be a successful tennis player, who knows maybe I can become the next face of American men's tennis."

Make sure to tune in tonight at 5:40 p.m. Los Angeles time, as the face of USC men's tennis will be profiled on KABC.

(Photo courtesy of Stanford Athletics)

Lucky #9

By Jordan Moore on June 2, 2011 4:19 PM | No Comments

USC men's and women's water polo head coach Jovan Vavic loves the number 9...at least until next year.

Born in Yugoslavia, the UCLA alum has ditched his Bruin background for Trojan greatness. He has won nine national championships (six men's and three women's) at Troy to go along with nine MPSF Coach of the Year honors and nine national Coach of the Year awards all while guiding two programs simultaneously.

In doing so, he is quickly moving up the most prestigious USC coaching list.

Here are the all-time Trojan head coaches by team national championships...

1.) Dean Cromwell, Men's Track and Field - 12
2.) Rod Dedeaux, Baseball - 11
3.) George Toley, Men's Tennis - 10
4.) Peter Daland, Men's Swimming and Diving - 9
5.) Jovan Vavic, Men's and Women's Water Polo - 9

Peter Smith (three men's tennis), Andrea Gaston (two women's golf), Mick Haley (two women's volleyball), Ron Allice (women's track and field) and Ali Khosroshahin (women's soccer) are the other current national championship winning USC head coaches.

Four-for-Four

By Jordan Moore on June 2, 2011 3:46 PM | 2 Comments

To anyone who will listen, Steve Johnson has made it clear that he is coming back to win a fourth national championship in his four years.

Alongside title clinching specialist Daniel Nguyen, the two juniors have the chance to match Stanford's Paul Goldstein (1995-1998) as the only men's college tennis student-athletes to finish their careers a perfect 4-for-4.

With only two senior starters departing and the expected growth of freshmen talents Ray Sarmiento and Emilio Gomez, don't bet against them.

The Trojans celebrate #3.

Three-Peaters

By Jordan Moore on June 2, 2011 3:24 PM | No Comments

The USC athletic department celebrated the men's tennis and water polo national championship winners at a ceremony this afternoon hosted by athletic director Pat Haden and university president C.L. Max Nikias.

Both programs have built "mini-dynasties," said water polo head coach Jovan Vavic, who spoke glowingly about what this university has meant to him and his family. Given their underdog status, Vavic rated this current championship team as the greatest he ever coached.

As for the hard court three-peaters, Peter Smith called the 27-2 squad his most dominant. The head coach pointed out that the team is championship material on the court and in the classroom as they posted the second best GPA among Trojan men's teams this year and the best academic record each of the previous two title seasons.

And then there was cake...

Morning Papers (6/2/11)

By Jordan Moore on June 2, 2011 10:15 AM | No Comments

Extra! Extra! Read all about it...

LT Matt Kalil was named to the Playboy preseason All-America team.
THE 2011 PLAYBOY PRESEASON ALL.doc
Former USC QB Mitch Mustain is headed up north to play for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Canadian Football League.
The Goldston twins, former USC hoops walk-ons, have invented a shoe to help basketball players jump higher. So now instead of dunking on an 8-foot hoop, I can dunk on an 8 1/2 foot hoop.
Frank Cruz is in control. Mark Whicker has the story.
Robert Stock was a big story when he joined the USC baseball program at only 16. Now, he's in the Cardinals' system reports Pedro Moura.
In the aftermath of the appeal ruling, Michael Lev put the NCAA's decision in context.
Dennis Dodd has more on the appeal for CBSSports.com.
Former USC women's soccer All-American Ashley Nick captained the Dutch side Twente to the league title and a berth in the Champions League. Here's a pic of the American skipper...

Three More Kickoff Times

By Jordan Moore on June 1, 2011 2:55 PM | No Comments

USC football announced the kickoff times for three more home games today.

9/10 - Utah at USC - 4:30 p.m. on Versus

9/17 - Syracuse at USC - *3:30 pm on FSN or 5 p.m. on FX*

11/26 - UCLA at USC - 7 p.m. on FSN

*The Syracuse time will be finalized later this month.

Click here for the complete schedule with previously announced start times and TV coverage.

Football is coming...

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Honda Nom

By Jordan Moore on June 1, 2011 2:18 PM | No Comments

The prestigious Honda Award has nominated USC's Maria Sanchez for the annual women's tennis honor.

Sanchez finished the season ranked #2 in the country after collecting individual trophies as the ITA National Senior Player of the Year and the Pac-10 Player of the Year.

Click here for the complete story.

Sanchez is looking to join women's swimmer Katinka Hosszu as the second Honda Award winner of the 2010-11 season.

New Online Store!

By Jordan Moore on June 1, 2011 12:46 PM | No Comments

Shop.USCTrojans.com is the NEW online fan shop featuring over 1,250 Trojan merchandise items.

Click here to browse the new store!

The new site has three times more merchandise and improved functionality, so you can take a thorough look at each item before purchasing.

We are also offering flat rate 3-day shipping on any size order. Plus, a portion of the proceeds benefits USC athletics.

Click here to shop now!

June 2011 Archives