Written by USC blog contributor, Andie Hagemann
The USC men's basketball team opened its first practice of the 2012-13 season on Friday. After a disappointing 6-26 record last season, the 2012 Trojans are ready to bounce back and have dubbed themselves the second chance team.
"We named ourselves the second chance team because of the fact that we have so many transfers," senior guard Jio Fontan said. "We have guys that have been overlooked recruiting wise and we look at this as an opportunity to make up for the things we let go in the past. We are looking to make a statement."
Fontan (Picture courtesy of Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY) was sidelined during the 2011-12 season after tearing a ligament in his left knee during an exhibition tour in Brazil. Following the first practice of the season, Fontan said that he would be able to play a game immediately, if needed. With the departure of USC's leading scorer in 2011-12, Fontan is also ready to step into a leadership position for the Trojans.
The fast-paced practice, held at the Galen Center practice courts, also featured a five minute scrimmage with live officiating. "We got a lot of the nervousness out early with the high speed, high intensity practice," Fontan said. "Guys are still learning and we are throwing a lot of stuff at them quickly. It is going to be a growing process but I am definitely happy with how we practiced today."
Even head coach Kevin O'Neill was impressed with the Trojans' first day of practice. "We are a physical group and we have guys that play really hard," O'Neill said. "Now, we need to play smart, play together and without fouling. I like what we did today and it was a really good first day."
Here is O'Neill's post-practice presser...
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