Lakey Has Been Rare Bright Spot

While the Trojans sink in the Pacific 10 Conference standings, forward Greg Lakey is emerging from the shadows of the bench.

The sophomore saw limited action for much of the season but has averaged 10.8 points and 5.2 rebounds in the last four games. He had a career-high 17 points against California. Lakey has also shown a dramatic improvement at the foul line. The 53% shooter has made 31 of 37 free throws for an 84% average.

One more thing for USC to consider: The Trojans have won all three games (St. Bonaventure, Arkansas State and Arizona State) with Lakey in the starting lineup.

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Offense will be of utmost importance when USC plays Oregon State tonight. The Beavers have held opponents to 36.5% shooting from the field, which ranks them first in the conference and third in the nation behind Kansas State and Northwestern.

That defensive efficiency has translated into a three-game winning streak, the team’s longest in the Pac-10 since 1993.

TONIGHT

vs. Oregon State, 7

* Radio--XTRA (690)

* Site--Sports Arena

* Records--Beavers 11-7, 5-4 in conference; Trojans 10-8, 2-7.

* Update--Oregon State is led by guard Deaundra Tanner, who averages 14.7 points and almost single-handedly beat USC at Corvallis earlier this season, scoring the Beavers’ final 10 points in a 69-66 overtime victory.

Tickets: (213) 740-GOSC.