USC basketball: Trojans lead Arizona, 28-21, at halftime

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

In its usual fashion, USC is controlling the tempo this evening against Arizona, building a 28-21 lead at halftime.

The first half was nothing more than a grinding soiree full of blocks, steals and turnovers. It’s the Wildcats’ second-lowest point total in the first half this season, after their 20-point output in the first half against San Diego State.

Arizona is five-for-26 shooting (27%) from the field and has nine turnovers, which have led to nine points for USC.

Meanwhile, USC is 10 of 27 from the field (37%) with seven turnovers and five blocks.

Alex Stepheson leads the Trojans with nine points and five rebounds. He has played well at times, like when he drew two charging calls, and not so much at others, like when he missed two dunks.

Arizona point guard Nic Wise has missed all four of his field-goal attempts and has just two points.

Leading 14-8, USC went on a 13-2 run to go up 27-10 with 6:44 in the first half, but Arizona responded with an 11-1 run to end the half.

And just for kicks, the three former USC recruits who are freshman for Arizona -- Solomon Hill, Derrick Williams and Lamont ‘Momo’ Jones -- have a combined nine points.

-- Baxter Holmes