SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — Southern California used a strong second half to defeat San Diego 94-81 in a men’s nonconference basketball game Tuesday night at Jenny Craig Pavilion. The game was tied 38-38 at halftime before the Trojans outscored the Toreros 56-43 after the break. Southern California improved to 9-1 this season, while San Diego fell to 3-6. An announced crowd of 2,317 watched the game, where the total points scored went over the projected over/under line. The Trojans were heavy favorites entering the contest.

Preview: No. 8/1 Southern California Trojans at San Diego Toreros SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — The Southern California Trojans look to rebound from their first loss of the season when they visit the San Diego Toreros in a nonconference men’s basketball game Tuesday night at Jenny Craig Pavilion. The Trojans (8-1) saw their perfect start end with an 84-76 home loss to Washington on Saturday. Despite the defeat, standout wing Chad Baker-Mazara continued his stellar play, scoring 21 points. The senior has been the engine for USC, averaging 21.7 points over his last seven games, including a 34-point effort in a triple-overtime win over Troy on Nov. 20. “We didn’t defend or execute the way we needed to,” USC coach said of the Washington loss. “This is a chance to get back to our identity on the road.” The Toreros (3-5) have dropped four straight, most recently an 86-69 defeat at San Jose State on Friday. Guard Adrian McIntyre, who had nine points and three assists in that game, is a key facilitator. San Diego has struggled defensively during its skid, allowing an average of 80.8 points per game. “We’re facing a very talented, Top-10 caliber team,” San Diego coach said. “It’s a great opportunity for our group to compete and raise our level.” USC’s balanced attack also features guards Jordan Marsh and Jerry Easter, who combined for 30 points against Washington. The Trojans’ only road test so far was an 82-77 win at Oregon on Dec. 2. San Diego will need a significant defensive improvement to contain USC’s high-powered offense, which averages 86.2 points per game. The Toreros are 2-1 at home this season, with their lone loss coming to UC Riverside. Tuesday’s contest is the final tune-up before conference play for both teams. USC begins Big Ten competition in January, while San Diego opens West Coast Conference play later in December. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.