The Trojans take an early 10-point lead, but the former Arizona standout powers his way to 23 points as the Hoosiers prevail, 82-69, and drop the Trojans to 1-3 in Big Ten play.

Oumar Ballo flexed his biceps, shrugged his shoulders and bumped his chest with senior forward Luke Goode — while putting perhaps the final dagger in USC’s hopes of pulling a road upset.

The absence of Malik Reneau has fueled several theories that it's made Oumar Ballo better for Indiana. Many of Ballo’s successful plays feature him in motion, not in stationary positions on the floor.

With Malik Reneau on the shelf due to a right knee injury, Indiana needs Oumar Ballo to play like the dominant big man he's proven to be at times this

BLOOMINGTON — Indiana basketball center Oumar Ballo was not in the starting lineup for Thursday night's game against Rutgers, but was available to come off the bench. The Hoosiers (10-3; 1-1 Big Ten) started Luke Goode in Ballo's place for a second straight game.

Oumar Ballo powered his way to 23 points and Indiana overcame an early double-digit deficit to beat USC 82-69 Wednesday.