`Runners Headed To Face USC In Los Angeles

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – CSU Bakersfield's men's basketball team normally travels to Los Angeles to catch a flight, but this weekend the Roadrunners are planning a short stay in the City of Angeles. Bakersfield is preparing for a non-conference clash with the Trojans of USC, Nov. 25, in the Galen Center.

After a 2-1 finish at the Junkanoo Jam in The Bahamas last week, CSUB's Head Coach, Rod Barnes, is pleased by his team's recent performances: "I thought we played with that kind of togetherness and cohesiveness. Offensively we also made some shots, but we made plays on the defensive end when it really counted. One of the areas that we need to improve on is playing more consistently, both offensively and defensively."

"USC is talented," said Barnes of this weekend's matchup. "They have a big front line. They have a player that is projected as a possible NBA pick this year. It will be a challenge for us. They have depth to get to eight or nine players."

After suffering a 78-63 defeat at the hands of Texas Tech on Monday, USC rebounded with a 99-80 victory over Missouri State on Tuesday. With the victory, the Trojans improved to 3-2 on the young season. Bennie Boatwright missed two games this year, but is firing on all cylinders with a team-high 17.3 points per game. Nick Rakocevic is another Trojan to watch out for as the 6-foot-11 junior is averaging a double-double.

CSUB will also enter Sunday's game with a 3-2 record after a pair of dramatic finishes in last week's tournament. Sophomore guard Jarkel Joiner leads a well-balanced CSUB offense with 12.2 points per game while four other `Runners chip in 9.8 points or more per contest. The Bakersfield defense continues to be the calling card of the program as CSUB came into the week ranked 56th in the nation with 38 total steals.

Tipoff on Sunday is scheduled for a 4 p.m. start in the Galen Center. `Runner fans who cannot make the trip to Los Angeles can watch the game on the Pac-12 Networks, listen in on 1180 AM/96.1 FM KERN, or follow along with live stats. Links to all thee options are available on the CSUB men's basketball schedule page. Fans can also follow @CSUB_MBB on Twitter (link above) for live updates from inside the arena.

~GoRunners.com~

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Players Mentioned

#0 Jarkel Joiner: G; 6' 1"; Freshman

Players Mentioned

#0 Jarkel Joiner
: 6' 1"; Freshman
: G

Players Mentioned

#0 Jarkel Joiner

Players Mentioned

#0 Jarkel Joiner