As the NBA season barrels toward its most critical stretch, a pair of former USC Trojans are hitting their stride and imposing their will in the paint. Evan Mobley and Onyeka Okongwu are showcasing the elite rim protection and two-way versatility that made them stars in cardinal and gold, reminding everyone why Trojan big men are so highly coveted in the modern game.
For the Cleveland Cavaliers, Evan Mobley is playing like a freight train with a feathery touch. The young star is peaking at the perfect time, blending defensive intimidation with an increasingly confident offensive game. His presence has been a cornerstone for the Cavs as they solidify their playoff positioning, proving that a dominant big man is still the ultimate luxury in today's NBA.
Meanwhile in Atlanta, opportunity has knocked for Onyeka Okongwu, and he's kicked the door down. With the Hawks' frontcourt thinned by injury, Okongwu has seized the starting center role and run with it. His standout performance last Monday—a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double complemented by three steals and a block—was a statement. He's backed it up with consistent, high-energy play, providing crucial rim protection and scoring as the Hawks make their late-season push. When you need a big man to anchor your defense and finish plays, Okongwu is showing he's that guy.
The Trojan legacy in the league extends beyond the paint, of course. Veteran DeMar DeRozan, a walking bucket for nearly two decades, added another historic milestone to his resume by passing the legendary Oscar Robertson on the all-time scoring list. His 28-point outburst against a former team was a classic DeRozan performance—methodical, efficient, and a reminder that his mid-range mastery remains timeless.
While Bronny James continues to carve out a meaningful role in the Lakers' rotation, another Trojan is making his impact felt in a different way. For the Golden State Warriors, De'Anthony Melton has embraced the "defensive irritant" role. Even on nights when his shot isn't falling, his tenacious perimeter defense and knack for steals—like his three-pilfer performance against Cleveland—provide the gritty, intangible energy that winning teams desperately need.
It's a great time to be a fan of USC basketball, both past and present. As these alumni excel on the biggest stage, they carry the Trojan standard of toughness and skill—qualities we celebrate every time we step on the court, from the Galen Center to the local gym.