Springfield, MA (Sports Network) - Bryce Jones scored a game-high 21 points, leading the USC Trojans to an 80-61 win over the New Mexico State Aggies as part of the Hall of Fame Tip-Off Classic. Also scoring in double figures for the Trojans (3-2) were Nikola Vucevic with 19 points, followed by Marcus Simmons and Garrett Jackson with 12 and 10 points, respectively, as they snapped a two-game slide.
The Aggies (2-3), losers of three in a row after opening the season with back- to-back victories, were led by Christian Kabongo with 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while reserves Gordo Castillo and Tshilidzi Nephawe each posted 13 points in the setback. USC, while hitting an even 50 percent from the floor in the first half, held NMSU to just 31.3 percent, allowing the Trojans to claim a 40-28 advantage at the break.
In the second half USC again made good on 50 percent from the field to cruise to the 19-point triumph. The Trojans shot a solid 7-of-17 (.412) behind the three-point line and also forced the Aggies into 18 turnovers on the afternoon. USC next plays on Wednesday, hosting Cal State Fullerton at the Galen Center.
For more information on USC hoops, check out the SB Nation blog Conquest Chronicles.