Eric Musselman speaks about ‘full-circle moment’ coaching USC

The newest USC hoops coach, Eric Musselman, recently fielded questions from Jon Rothstein on College Hoops Today. The interview with the Trojans’ head coach illuminated his level of excitement about returning to the Sunshine State.

During the interview, the Trojans head coach was asked if coaching at USC feels like a ‘full-circle moment’ for him. Musselman’s response was direct and to the point.

“It does, Jon,” started Musselman. “It’s so interesting; my first job out of college, when I left the USD, was working for the Clippers. I lived in Manhattan Beach on 44th and Highland, and now I’m on 6th St. and Highland. So, certainly, it feels like home.

“Obviously, this is just my third time working in the LA market — it was the Clippers, the Lakers G-league team, and now it’s USC. So it feels super comfortable from a family perspective and we’re really excited about being back in Los Angeles.”

Musselman, an Ohio native, spent many years on the West Coast in California. As a college athlete, he played at the University of San Diego from 1983-87. As a coach, he bounced around quite a bit, mainly in the NBA, holding head coaching positions with the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings. So, to say that Musselman is familiar with California and being on the West Coast would be an understatement, which is why the former Arkansas Razorbacks head coach believes USC is the perfect fit for him.

“It does. I think from a geographical standpoint recruiting-wise, you look at what the footprint historically has been; obviously, LA is a great area to recruit from. And certainly San Diego and then the Bay Area. So, all three places,” Musselman said.

“There’s not many people that have been a part of the Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, (and) Kings organizations, all pro teams here in the state of California. I’ve been fortunate to have experience at all those spots. So I think that it’s a really, really good spot for us to be at right now.”

Musselman USC for just over two months, And he already feels right at home, rightfully so. The 2024-25 college basketball schedule has yet to be revealed. However, it is clear from the Trojans head coach’s responses above that he is eagerly waiting for his coaching debut in a program that feels like home and is the perfect fit for him and his family.