Preview: Southern California at Ohio State COLUMBUS, Ohio (Interstat) — Two teams trending in opposite directions will meet Wednesday night when the Southern California Trojans visit the Ohio State Buckeyes in a Big Ten men’s basketball matchup at Value City Arena. The Trojans (18-6) arrive having won four of their last five, including a tight 77-75 road victory at Penn State on Sunday. In contrast, the Buckeyes (15-8) are looking to halt a slide after a disappointing 82-61 home loss to Michigan on the same day. Southern California’s surge has been fueled by the hot hand of guard Alijah Arenas. The sophomore is averaging 19.3 points over his last three games, including a 24-point performance at Penn State and a season-high 29 points in a win over Indiana on Feb. 3. His scoring punch will be vital against an Ohio State defense that allowed Michigan to shoot 54% from the field. Ohio State will counter with its own standout guard, Bruce Thornton. The senior leader is averaging 16.3 points and 4.3 assists per game this season. He posted 16 points, six rebounds and four assists in the loss to Michigan, following a 17-point effort in a road win at Maryland. Thornton’s ability to control the tempo and facilitate will be crucial as the Buckeyes seek to rediscover their form after losing three of their last five. The matchup presents a stark contrast in recent trajectories. Since a 2-5 stretch in early January, USC has found its footing in conference play. Ohio State, after a strong start that included a win over UCLA, has struggled for consistency, particularly on the defensive end. Wednesday’s game is the only scheduled meeting between the programs this season. For the Trojans, a win would solidify their position in the upper tier of the conference. For the Buckeyes, it represents a critical opportunity to stabilize their season in front of their home crowd before a challenging stretch that includes games against Wisconsin and a road trip to Michigan State. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network.