Pac-12 Basketball Season Tips Off with Thrilling Week 1 Action

The Pac-12 is back and better than ever, with almost every team in this conference 1-0. This season is shaping up to be one for the books.

The much-anticipated return of Pac-12 basketball saw thrilling matchups in Week 1, with standout performances and intense showdowns that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Georgia vs. Oregon

In a clash between two basketball powerhouses, Georgia faced off against Oregon in a matchup that marked their first meeting since 1975. This showdown to remember took place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

N'Faly Dante's Dominance

Dante, a formidable force on the court, showcased his skills with a jaw-dropping 16 points and 21 rebounds in just 27 minutes of play, and his dominance led Oregon to an 82-71 victory. Dante's rebound total marked a career-high, achieving a double-double by halftime.

Despite individual challenges for Keeshawn Barthelemy and Jesse Zarzuela, the Ducks outshot Georgia 42.5% to 33.8%, further asserting Oregon's dominance.

Arizona vs. Morgan State

The Wildcats dominated Morgan State, using two substantial runs to build a 35-point halftime lead, their largest difference since 1998.

Arizona exhibited a stellar performance, shooting 55% from the floor and capitalizing on a 58-20 advantage in the paint.

Kylan Boswell's Brilliance

Boswell, in control from the start, played with loads of confidence in the absence of last season's star, Kerr Kriisa, who now plays for West Virginia.

Pulling up on the perimeter and beating his man off the dribble, Boswell contributed 11 first-half points as Arizona built its commanding lead. He finished 7-10 from the floor and 4-6 from deep.

USC vs. Cal State Bakersfield

USC faced Cal State Bakersfield in a game that tested their depth. Despite missing three starters, USC showcased its strength with all nine players on the floor contributing at least two points. Oziyah Sellers emerged with an impressive 16 points on 6-9 shooting from the field.

Despite the victory, USC faced challenges on the glass, out-rebounding the Bakersfield team by only two, 28-26. The Trojans aim to improve on the boards, especially as Pac-12 play looms.

Arizona State vs. Mississippi State

In a matchup against Mississippi State, Arizona State faced a tough challenge.

Trey Fort, a third-year transfer, stole the show by shooting six three-pointers and scoring 21 points to lead Mississippi State to a 71-56 victory.

Transfers Shine

With seven Division I transfers joining the roster, Arizona State's success was on the backs of Louisville transfer Kamari Lands with 13 points and Frankie Collins with 10. However, Fort's sharpshooting proved too much to handle for the Sun Devils, who shot 32% as a team.

The opening week of Pac-12 basketball showed depth and talent. As the teams gear up for more challenges, the Pac-12 should deliver high-quality basketball throughout the season.

Cora Rodriguez is a first-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email cir5381@psu.edu.