Coming off a pair of stellar performances, the 16th-ranked USC men's basketball team looks to extend its winning streak to three games when it takes on the UC Irvine Gophers at the Galen Center on Tuesday night.

The Trojans (2-0), who have scored at least 80 points in each of their first two games, boast one of the deadliest backcourt combinations in college basketball in Boogie Ellis and Isaiah Collier.

Ellis and Collier have scored at least 35 points in each of their first two games, and they lead the Trojans' offense with 18 assists per game.

USC's defense is also one of the best in the country. Last season, the Trojans ranked eighth in the country in opponent shooting percentage, while so far this season, their opponents are shooting just 36 percent from the field.

The Gophers (1-1) are coming off a 91-74 win over New Mexico State A&M at home on Sunday. They are a balanced team with multiple players who can score inside and outside.

USC has a solid record against UCLA, winning 8 of their last 10 games. The most recent meeting was in 2021, with the Trojans winning 66-61 at the Galen Center.

The Trojans are confident heading into Tuesday's game. They have a strong team with experience and youth. They will also be playing at home in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Prediction USC 82, UC Irvine 67