Early Momentum: USC Takes the Lead

Rick Pitino's words hit home in the locker room. Terrence Williams and Earl Clark's expressions changed. They weren't just gearing up to win; they were determined to show their skills and prove their worth against their predicted draft rankings.

Pitino's keen observation struck a chord with both players. It wasn't just about the game; it was about proving themselves worthy of higher recognition. His words fired up their youthful spirits.

The team, previously relaxed and joking, now shared a united focus. Pitino's reminder wiped away any hint of complacency. Each player's gaze sharpened with resolve, ready to face USC with renewed intensity and purpose.

In that moment, Rick Pitino's words had not only set the stage for a crucial game but had sparked a determination in his players, uniting them in a common goal: to win and reshape their futures on their terms.

...

As the game approached, both teams took to the court for warm-ups.

Lian Dao began with stretching exercises, ensuring his body was limber and ready. His three-point shots during warm-up confirmed his sharp shooting form, crucial for the upcoming match.

With the fans settled in their seats, and the coaches giving final instructions, Barkley and Kenny Smith kicked off their commentary.

"Barkley, who do you think has the edge today?" Kenny asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Anxious, Barkley blurted out, "Louisville Cardinals?"

Kenny smirked and gestured three fingers below the table, teasing Barkley about treating him to three big meals if he didn't agree.

Barkley countered with one finger, signaling his limit to just one meal.

Slowly, Kenny drawled, "Lou-is-ville..." He looked at Barkley, hinting that he might say otherwise if Barkley didn't budge.

Defeated by Kenny's persistence, Barkley reluctantly raised two fingers, indicating he could stretch to two meals, but that was it.

Seeing Barkley's limit, Kenny made an OK gesture under the table, agreeing to settle for two meals.

"Despite Louisville's win against Kansas, I'm leaning towards USC. They upset Michigan State last game," Kenny commented.

Barkley disagreed, "Kenny, I'm backing the Louisville Cardinals. They're seasoned as the No. 1 seed, and their zone defense will stifle USC."

"No chance at all?" Kenny challenged.

"Yes, USC's made a good run, but they've relied on luck," Barkley asserted.

Kenny countered, "Charles, the NCAA's about miracles. Don't underestimate USC."

"In that case, how about a bet?" Barkley proposed, setting the stage for their lively banter and differing predictions as the game drew nearer.

...

The commentators' lively banter at the outset set the stage for the broadcast, prompting viewers to speculate on the game's potential outcomes.

As both teams' players marched onto the court for the pre-game ceremony, fans displayed unwavering enthusiasm. USC, the sole representative of the Parker Ten League, enjoyed steadfast support from its league's fans. Similarly, Louisville Cardinals fans hoped to witness two Big East teams advancing together to the Final Four.

After the opening ceremony, the starting lineups were announced:

Louisville Cardinals: Edgar Souza, Jerry Smith, Terrence Williams, Earl Clark, Samardo Samuels.

USC Trojans: Daniel Hackett, DeMar, Dwight, Lian Dao, Gibson.

Rick Pitino appeared visibly surprised by USC's lineup, knowing that Vucevic's suspension had been lifted, granting them a pivotal advantage at the center position. USC opted to begin with their fast-paced "run and gun" strategy, aiming to challenge Louisville's zone defense by capitalizing on outside shooting.

The game commenced with a jump ball between Lian Dao and Samardo Samuels.

"Beep!"

Lian Dao soared to secure possession for USC.

Louisville initiated their defensive strategy with a zone formation. Lian Dao received the inbound pass and used Gibson's screen to maneuver towards the left-wing three-point line. With no defender in close pursuit, he confidently launched a three-pointer.

Swish!

USC opened the scoring with a flawless three-pointer.

Southern California also employed their well-rehearsed 2-3 zone defense, a tactic familiar to their team. Zone defense, prevalent in both NBA and NCAA, offers structured positioning for defenders, facilitating rebounds and swift transitions.

However, zone defense isn't foolproof. It has vulnerabilities, notably along the 45° angles beyond the three-point line. Lian Dao's earlier successful shot exploited this defensive gap.

Louisville missed an opportunity when Terrence Williams failed to convert a perimeter shot, allowing Gibson to snatch the rebound.

USC mirrored Louisville's defensive stance due to their opponent's erratic perimeter shooting, particularly from Terrence Williams.

USC swiftly transitioned into a fast break. Gibson fired a long pass to Lian Dao, who quickly fed DeMar near the free-throw line.

DeMar executed an impressive spiral dunk, igniting cheers from the crowd.

The University of Southern California surged ahead with a perfect 5-0 start.

As the game progressed, Lian Dao's refined low-post skills became pivotal, particularly in securing crucial defensive rebounds.