Sacramento Kings' DeMar DeRozan Setting Standard For USC Trojans In NBA

The USC Trojans have become a program known for producing talent into the NBA. With the NBA season approaching the halfway mark, take a look at how some of the Trojans' products are doing in the pros.

1. Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan

Jan 19, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan (10) controls the ball against the Washington Wizards during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images | Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

One of USC's most productive pros in school history, DeRozan is in the midst of a down year for his standards, but he is still on pace to average 20 points a game for the 13th straight season. In his first year in Sacramento after signing a three-year deal worth $76.7 million, DeRozan is averaging 21.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.

Although the Kings are in the midst of a disappointing season, sitting with a record of 23-22, DeRozan has been staying productive and helped keep his team alive in the Western Conference. DeRozan has scored at least 30 points in two of his last five games for Sacramento.

2. Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier

Jan 25, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (13) gives direction during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images | Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

The latest Trojan first round pick in the NBA, Collier was the No. 29 pick by the Jazz in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Similarly to his only season at USC, things haven't gone to plan for Collier in his rookie season. Despite the road bumps, the rookie guard has started to pick up some success at the NBA level.

Collier was recently promoted to the starting five for the Jazz. He is averaging 5.1 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds. With the Jazz sitting at the bottom of the West, their attention now turns to the development of their young core, which includes the former USC guard. Collier has a bright future ahead as Utah hopes he becomes the future for them at the point guard position.

MORE: Las Vegas Raiders' Pete Carroll To Teach Class For USC Trojans While Coaching in NFL

MORE: USC Trojans To Land Elite Linebacker AJ Tuitele Over Texas Longhorns?

MORE: Colorado Buffaloes' Deion Sanders NCAA Violation: USC Trojans Decommit Julian Lewis

3. Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley

Jan 14, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) shoots the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mobley enters his forth season in the NBA and is beginning to emerge as a legitimate rising star in the league. He's helped the Cavs become the top team in the Eastern Conference. A year after being named All-Defensive first team, Mobley has only gotten better. He averages nearly a steal a game along with 1.4 blocks.

On the offensive end, Mobley is having his best season to date. He is averaging 18.3 points shooting 57 percent from the field and a career-high 41 percent from behind the arc. Mobley's impact goes beyond just the statline. He helps the Cavs do whatever is necessary to win games, leading to a 36-9 record. Safe to say, Mobley has helped transform the organization.

MORE: NFL Analyst Calls Chad Bowden, USC Trojans Hire 'Fascinating'

MORE: USC Trojans Quarterbacks Jayden Maiava, Husan Longstreet NIL Valuations

MORE: Reggie Bush Reveals Biggest Changes Needed In USC Trojans, Lincoln Riley Offense

MORE: No. 1 Cornerback Recruit Duvay Williams Commit To USC Trojans, Georgia Bulldogs?