College Basketball: Troy at Loyola Marymount

Troy opens a four-game Southern California swing in Westchester against Loyola Marymount, and the matchup is tighter than the brand names suggest. The Trojans are 3–0 with the core intact from last year’s NCAA tournament team, and Scott Cross teams usually travel well: rebounding commitment, shot selection discipline, and low-mistake basketball late. Two early flags exist, though. First, the environment shift—rural Alabama to Los Angeles—can be a lot for a young roster; the first game of a weeklong road run is when legs and focus wobble. Second, perimeter defense has been leaky to start the season, and LMU has enough shooting to punish soft closeouts.

That said, there’s a clear Troy path. Expect Cross to target Myron Amey and Rodney Brown with length and help principles, forcing the Lions deeper into the clock and into secondary creators. If Troy keeps LMU off the offensive glass and limits free throws, their half-court efficiency should win the possession math. Offensively, the Trojans can pressure the rim, play through post touches to collapse the shell, and kick to rhythm threes—exactly where LMU’s defense can bend.

The travel spot isn’t ideal, but catching four points with the more complete team has value.

Pick:
Troy 70
Loyola Marymount 65