Eric Musselman to leave Arkansas for USC

By: Cecilia Stanford

FAYETTEVILLE (Ark.) – Arkansas’ Eric Musselman has been hired as USC’s next men’s basketball coach as of today. Musselman is replacing Andy Enfield, who leaves USC after 11 years of coaching. 

One Arkansas student said, “I think that he was a really big part of the hype around basketball just because of his energy. I really think that he made it fun to watch…so it makes me really sad.”

Last season was the worst Musselman has had in his Arkansas career. The Razorbacks ended 16-17 overall and 6-12 in the SEC. But, he has previously led the team to back-to-back Elite Eights and a Sweet Sixteen appearance. 

“They need their program rebuilt, and Musselman knows how to rebuild a program.” Arkansas senior, Jordyn Lassiter, said. “He did that at Nevada, he’s done that here. Even if we didn’t have the greatest season last season, our program is better because of him.”

Before Musselman arrived at Arkansas in 2019, he head coached at Nevada for four seasons. He led them to three Mountain West regular-season titles, three NCAA tournaments, and a Sweet Sixteen appearance. 

“My family and I couldn’t be more excited for this incredible opportunity at USC,” said Musselman. “We will be committed to the development of our student-athletes and upholding the values that make the Trojan Family so special. We will hit the ground running and work tirelessly to make our great alumni, fans and all of Los Angeles proud.”