The USC Trojans took down the Penn State Nittany Lions 77-75 on Sunday thanks to an impressive game-winning layup by freshman Alijah Arenas.
ALIJAH ARENAS GAME WINNER 🚨 pic.twitter.com/P3UVBQPhqx
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— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) February 8, 2026
Arenas, son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, actually lost his dribble for a moment on the final possession before making two nifty spin moves. As multiple defenders crashed into the paint, Arenas sent the ball just high enough on a layup attempt to avoid being blocked and made the basket.
With less than a second left on the clock, Penn State was unable to make a last-second heave at the buzzer, allowing USC to emerge with the win.
The game-winner capped off a strong performance by Arenas, who finished with 24 points, three rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
For Penn State, Freddie Dilione V put up 23 points, four rebounds and four assists.
Sunday marked USC’s third straight victory as the Trojans improved to 18-6 overall.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
