News Summary
The University of San Diego men’s basketball team has unveiled its non-conference schedule for the upcoming season. Among the notable matchups is a home game against Southern California on December 9. The game marks the return of USD alum Eric Musselman, enhancing the rivalry between the teams. The schedule includes eight home games, four road games, and a neutral-site contest against Cal Baptist. As the Toreros prepare to kick off their season, fans are eager to see how they will compete against well-known programs, aiming for a strong performance leading into conference play.
San Diego Unveils 2025 Men’s Basketball Non-Conference Schedule
San Diego, CA – The University of San Diego men’s basketball team has officially released its non-conference schedule for the 2025 season, featuring a notable home game against the Southern California Trojans on December 9, 2025. This matchup will take place at the Jenny Craig Pavilion and marks the seventh meeting between the USD Toreros and the USC Trojans. The announcement was made on August 8, 2025, as the team prepares for its upcoming season.
A highlight of the game is the return of USD alum Eric Musselman, who currently serves as head coach for USC. Musselman, who played for the Toreros from 1983 to 1987, will be making a significant return to his roots in San Diego, adding an exciting storyline to the game. Musselman has a rich history with USD, contributing to the team during two NCAA Tournament appearances and earning a degree in Political Science.
2025 Non-Conference Schedule Overview
The 2025 non-conference schedule comprises a total of eight home games, four road games, and one neutral-site contest against Cal Baptist in Palm Desert, California, as part of the Acrisure Series. The Toreros will kick off their preseason on October 18, 2025, with a home exhibition game against Cal State Dominguez Hills. Shortly after, on October 29, USD will face San Diego State at Viejas Arena as part of their exhibition slate.
Moreover, the game against Southern California is slated to be the first of two matchups against teams from the Big Ten this season. The Toreros will also face the Washington Huskies on December 22, 2025, providing another challenge in their non-conference lineup.
Historical Context of Eric Musselman
Eric Musselman, a distinguished figure at USD, was an essential part of the Toreros’ basketball history. As a player, he contributed to the team during a period that saw significant success, including the program’s best record of 24-6 during his senior year in 1987. Musselman also received accolades for his academic achievements, being named to the West Coast Conference All-Academic Team three times.
Since his playing days, Musselman has made a name for himself in the sport of basketball. He transitioned from player to coach and has become one of the few former USD players to rise to the ranks of an NBA head coach, showcasing his deep understanding of the game and ability to lead teams to victory. His return to coach against the Toreros will not only enhance the rivalry but also serve as a testament to the strong foundation of basketball talent that has originated from USD.
Looking Ahead
As the USD Toreros prepare for the upcoming season, the non-conference schedule offers an exciting opportunity for the team to compete at a high level against well-known programs. With the combination of home games and challenging opponents, the Toreros aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming season, building momentum leading into conference play.
Fans and supporters of the Toreros can look forward to an engaging season of basketball as the team fortifies its competitive edge through these strategic matchups. The anticipation surrounding the game against USC, especially given Eric Musselman’s ties to both teams, adds an extra layer of excitement for the USD basketball community.
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Additional Resources
- USD Men’s Basketball to Host USC
- Wikipedia: University of San Diego
- CSUN Men’s Soccer Drops to San Diego
- Google Search: USD basketball
- UC San Diego Athletics Hall of Fame
- Google Scholar: Eric Musselman
- USD Launches New Torero Kids Club
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Eric Musselman
- USD Women’s Beach Volleyball Team
- Google News: Eric Musselman USD
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
