USC Trojans @ Arizona Wildcats Friday NCAA Basketball Pick

USC Trojans @ Arizona Wildcats Friday NCAA Basketball Pick: First and foremost, the Wildcats are basically the only sure-fire tourney team coming into the Pac-10 tournament. They were easily the 1-seed, and spent much of the season slamming the rest of the Pac-10, going 15-4 in conference, 26-6 overall.

Derrick Williams has been an absolute beast this season, proving to be one of the most polished big men in the country, and playing his best in the biggest moments. But the Wildcats know very well how tough the Trojans can be, and remember, this game is at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California – a definite home court advantage for the Trojans of USC. At home is where the Trojans did most of their good work this season, at home is where the Trojans upset the Wildcats in late February.

USC has won 6 of their last 7 games to state their case to the tournament selection committee, but they can’t feel good about their chances as is. They’ll have to win this one for sure, and maybe then they’ll get an at-large bid. Alex Stephenson will have to continue to be a beast on the glass if the Trojans plan to upset the Wildcats again. USC is certainly playing as well as any team in the Pac-10 right now, so I give them a shot.

As of now, there are no lines to pick from (3:45 EST) but I think Arizona will be favored despite playing what will basically be a road game. I like the Trojans, who have a lot more to play for, to cover whatever spread it is. Give me USC 68 – Arizona 62 for my final score.

USC Trojans @ Arizona Wildcats