USC emerged victorious on the front end of their final home stand of the 2018-19 season. Heading into Thursday night versus Oregon, the Trojans were in fifth place with two games remaining on their court.
The Trojans season of ups and downs laid in the balance, with just shy of two weeks left in Pac-12 conference play. USC took control in the second half and won decisively, 66-49.
Coming off a dominant road performance at Cal, the Trojans (15-12, 8-6 Pac-12) needed to protect their home. With the top four seeds receiving a first-round bye in the Pac-12 tournament, beating the Ducks was imperative.
Senior captain Bennie Boatwright led the way at half with 11 points. The Trojans shook off a slow start and were ahead 30-25 at the break.
A strong start to the second half gave USC a comfortable lead, and the team never looked back.
Junior forward Nick Rakocevic had a pair of dunks to excite the crowd, finishing with 17 points and six rebounds.
Boatwright continued his hot streak from beyond the arc, with a team high 20 points and six 3-pointers. The senior moved up to third place on USC's all-time 3-pointers made list with 221 and counting. Only Elijah Stewart (245) and Lodrick Stewart (232) are ahead of him.
Coach Andy Enfield complimented Rakocevic's play in the paint all night. "He's had a good offensive year, I think tonight he had a good defensive game," Enfield said.
Saturday will be USC's final home game this season. That makes senior night extra special for Boatwright and guard Shaqquan Aaron, both Los Angeles natives.
To his credit, the captain is focused on winning and finishing strong. "Just try to get a W. It's Shaqquan and my last home game here. It's going to be bittersweet, our last time playing together here," Boatwright said.
With UCLA defeating Oregon State later in the evening, USC now sits in fourth place.
Their final home game is Saturday versus the Beavers, with a chance to move up the standings again. Tip off is set for 3 p.m.