Trojan Basketball Team Plays Murray State in Opener of Tournament at Bowling Green

USC’s basketball team will make its last stop on a four-game trip tonight at Bowling Green, Ky., where the Trojans will play Murray State in the first round of the Wendy’s tournament.

If the Trojans (1-1) win, they will be assured of a split on their season-opening road swing.

USC upset Richmond, 63-51, Tuesday night as forward Derrick Dowell led the way with 31 points and 17 rebounds. USC guard Dave Wiltz, who didn’t play against Richmond because of a strained thigh, is available tonight.

Murray State of Murray, Ky., has a 2-1 record but lacks intimidating size. The Racers don’t have a starter taller than 6 feet 7 inches.

The host team, Western Kentucky (4-1), ranked 14th (10th by UPI) is expected to beat Mercer (2-0) of Macon, Ga., tonight in the other first-round game. Tonight’s winners will play for the tournament championship Saturday night, with the losers meeting in the consolation game.