Arkansas Head Coach Eric Musselman Reportedly a Leading Candidate for USC Basketball Program

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
03/04/2024 23h18

According to sources, the University of Southern California (USC) is expected to name their new head coach by the end of this week, and Arkansas' Eric Musselman is reportedly the leading candidate for the position. Musselman recently completed his fifth season with the Arkansas Razorbacks, ending with a 16-17 record (6-12 SEC). This marked the worst record of his career and the Razorbacks' worst since the 2009-2010 season, when they went 14-18 (7-9 SEC).

During his tenure at Arkansas, Musselman has achieved considerable success, compiling a solid 111-59 record (65.3%). Under his guidance, the Razorbacks made three NCAA Tournament appearances, with each run leading to the second weekend. Impressively, the team reached two Elite Eights and made three Sweet Sixteen appearances, a significant accomplishment considering the program's lack of success in previous years.

Interestingly, USC is also a program that has experienced NCAA Tournament success in recent years. Despite a losing season in the past year, the Trojans made it to the Elite Eight in 2021. However, USC's former head coach, Andy Enfield, recently accepted the same position at SMU, leaving an opening that Musselman could potentially fill.

Rumors of Musselman being tied to other job openings have circulated for some time, even with his successful tenure at Arkansas. Athletics Director Hunter Yurachek recently triggered controversy among the Razorback fanbase by posting a three-year-old video suggesting Musselman's return to the program. Yurachek clarified that there is currently no new contract in place for Musselman, but expressed the desire to have him continue leading the Arkansas basketball team.

Following Yurachek's video, it was reported that Musselman was set to interview with USC on Wednesday. As of Wednesday morning, reports indicate that he is considered the top contender for the Trojans' coaching position.

The situation is expected to develop rapidly, with USC aiming to finalize their decision by the end of the week. The potential departure of Eric Musselman from Arkansas, if confirmed, will leave a significant void for the Razorbacks. However, it presents an opportunity for USC to bring in a proven coach who has demonstrated success on the national stage.

Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether Musselman will join the Trojans or choose to stay at Arkansas. The basketball world waits eagerly for the announcement that will shape the future of both programs.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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