UW Aims to End Losing Streak Against USC

Published by Andrew on December 6, 2025

With an 11-game Losing Streak looming over them, the University of Washington men’s basketball team is gearing up for a challenging away game against USC.

Scheduled for December 6, 2025, at 3 PM PT, this matchup represents a critical moment for UW as they aim to improve their standings in the Big Ten.

USC, currently ranked 24th in the AP Poll and undefeated this season, poses a formidable challenge.

This article will delve into the key players, historical context, and recent performances that shape this highly anticipated encounter.

Washington at USC: Big Ten Road Debut

The University of Washington men’s basketball team travels south to face USC on December 6, 2025, at 3 PM PT, marking the Huskies’ inaugural Big Ten road contest.

The showdown comes against a 24th-ranked Trojans squad that has yet to taste defeat this year, giving the matchup early-season weight for both programs.

Washington aims to break an 11-game losing streak against USC, setting the stage for an exciting clash as they vie for a much-needed victory.

UW’s Drive to Snap the 11-Game Skid

The Washington Huskies’ 11-game losing streak against USC has been a daunting period in their basketball history, shadowing each matchup with the pressure of ending the drought.

Since their last triumph in 2017 at Los Angeles, the Huskies have struggled to find a winning formula against this relentless USC team.

The streak began subtly but evolved into a psychological barrier, where the Trojans consistently outmaneuvered Washington in crucial moments, most recently underscored by narrow losses that could have gone either way.

Each game in this streak added layers of drama and tension to an already intense rivalry.

For instance, a particularly poignant defeat was in 2019, where Washington fell just short in a nail-biting finish, reiterating the importance of stamina and precision in close contests.

In another match-up in 2023, USC’s dominating play highlighted Washington’s defensive lapses, which became a point of introspection for the team.

These losses, each with their storyline, have fueled Washington’s determination to reclaim its form and rediscover victory against USC.

Now, as Washington prepares for their upcoming game, there is an undeniable urgency to break this pattern.

The squad aims to channel the lessons learned from these defeats into a cohesive strategy, leveraging standout performances such as those from Hannes Steinbach and Zoom Diallo, who recently showcased their prowess against UCLA.

The path to victory lies in viewing each game not just as a continuation of past frustrations but as an opportunity to write a new chapter in their storied rivalry with USC.

Takeaways from the UCLA Thriller

In a compelling Big Ten opener at Pauley Pavilion, the Washington Huskies mounted a significant comeback after trailing by 16 points, ultimately falling short with an 82-80 defeat against UCLA.

Hannes Steinbach returned to the lineup spectacularly, contributing 19 points and 10 rebounds, thus demonstrating his impactful presence on the court.

Partnering in the offensive efforts, Zoom Diallo also showcased tenacity scoring 19 points.

ESPN’s game recap illustrates how these performances underline Washington’s resilience in overcoming obstacles in a challenging venue, captivating fans and critics alike.

Steinbach’s Surge and the Rebounding Edge

Hannes Steinbach is rapidly becoming a cornerstone for the Washington Huskies, consistently contributing significant numbers on the court.

His prowess is evident as he has already recorded multiple double-doubles this season.

His exceptional performance in rebounding, where he stands as one of the top players in the league, significantly boosts UW’s chances in every matchup.

Notably, Steinbach’s ability to control the boards has been crucial in enabling Washington’s rebounding efforts to outpace opponents consistently.

His presence on the floor remains a vital component in dictating game outcomes, often flipping possessions in UW’s favor.

USC’s Firepower: Baker-Mazara and Rice

Chad Baker-Mazara and Rodney Rice have taken center stage in the USC basketball team’s stellar offense.

These two dynamic guards are consistently pushing the limits of their capabilities, making them a formidable duo in the Big Ten.

Key contributors to their success, both players have impressive scoring stats:

• Chad Baker-Mazara: 20.3 ppg
• Rodney Rice: 20.3 ppg

They don’t only rack up points, but also set the pace for massive plays, ensuring USC’s undefeated streak.

Baker-Mazara and Rice’s performances highlight USC’s offense’s prowess, leaving opponents scrambling to keep up.

Series Snapshot and Historical Context

USC has solidified its dominance over Washington in men’s basketball, achieving 11 consecutive victories since 2018. This winning streak has been a key highlight in the historical series between these teams.

The intense matchups have usually seen USC maintaining a tactical edge.

Here’s a snapshot of their last 11 encounters:

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This streak not only asserts USC’s superiority but also adds a layer of pressure and anticipation as Washington seeks to break the pattern, particularly with their first away game in the Big Ten.

LiveScores provides more insights into their head-to-head history.

For Washington, this game is more than just another encounter.

It represents an opportunity to change the narrative, as a victory at USC would not only break the series streak but also infuse fresh energy into their Big Ten journey.

As Washington prepares to face USC, breaking the Losing Streak will be crucial for their confidence and season trajectory.

With standout performances needed from players like Hannes Steinbach and Zoom Diallo, the outcome could define their path in the Big Ten.