SportsLos Angeles TimesSat, May 30, 2026, 5:07 AMNegative

USC squanders late lead, falls to Texas State in NCAA regional opener

In a dramatic NCAA regional opener, the USC Trojans squandered a late lead, ultimately losing 5-4 to Texas State after Chase Mora hit a two-run home run in the ninth inning off reliever Adam Troy. This loss marks a disappointing start for USC in the tournament, where expectations were high following a strong season.

WPN Brief

  • What Happened

    In a dramatic NCAA regional opener, the USC Trojans squandered a late lead, ultimately losing 5-4 to Texas State after Chase Mora hit a two-run home run in the ninth inning off reliever Adam Troy. This loss marks a disappointing start for USC in the tournament, where expectations were high following a strong season.

  • Why It Matters

    The defeat is significant for USC as it reflects ongoing challenges within the baseball program, which has faced ups and downs in recent tournaments. The Trojans had previously showcased resilience, but this loss raises concerns about their ability to perform under pressure.

  • The Bigger Picture

    This outcome underscores a broader trend of inconsistency in USC sports, particularly in baseball and basketball, where the teams have struggled to maintain momentum. The contrasting success of rival programs, such as UCLA and Texas, highlights the competitive landscape in collegiate athletics, emphasizing the need for USC to regroup and refocus as they navigate the remainder of the tournament.

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