Eric Musselman, who spent the last five years leading the University of Arkansas men’s basketball program and took the team to two Elite Eight appearances, was named Thursday the next coach at USC.
Musselman will take over for Andy Enfield, who departed USC after 11 seasons earlier this week to become coach at Southern Methodist University.
“I am beyond excited to welcome Eric, Danyelle and their incredible family to USC,” university Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen said in a statement. “We were determined to find the best coach to champion the development of our student-athletes and elevate our men’s basketball program. His track record of building winning programs and his unwavering commitment to a culture of excellence make him the perfect fit for USC.
“Eric displays heart, boldness, resiliency and everything that it means to be a Trojan,” she said. “He inspires togetherness and will help build and grow the program’s connectivity within the Trojan community. As we move to the Big Ten and enter a new chapter for USC men’s basketball, there is no better fit than Eric Musselman to launch our program to new heights.”
Prior to taking the Arkansas position in 2019, Musselman spent four seasons at the University of Nevada. He also spent time in the NBA, coaching with the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings.
He had a 111-59 record during his five seasons at Arkansas. The Razorbacks reached the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament in 2021 and 2022. The team reached the Sweet 16 last year.
The team struggled this season, finishing with a 16-17 mark.
“My family and I couldn’t be more excited for this incredible opportunity at USC,” Musselman said in a statement. “I am grateful to President (Carol) Folt and Jen Cohen for the chance to lead the men’s basketball program at such a world-class university with a rich tradition of success. We will be committed to the development of our student-athletes and upholding the values that make the Trojan family so special. We will hit the ground running and work tirelessly to make our great alumni, fans and all of Los Angeles proud.”
Musselman also had assistant-coaching gigs at LSU, Arizona State University and with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves.
In 2007, he was suspended by the NBA for two games while serving as coach of the Sacramento Kings following his no-contest plea to a DUI charge. He was placed on three years probation and ordered to attend a first-offender program.
Enfield spent 11 seasons leading the Trojans, amassing a 220-147 record and leading the team to the Elite Eight in 2021.