USC basketball: Trojans beat Gamecocks behind Jones’ 28 points

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When it comes to USC, the West Coast was the best coast -- at least in basketball terms.

The University of Southern California finally won a close game after losing three this season, beating the University of South Carolina, 63-60, on Saturday in the Las Vegas Invitational.

The Trojans (3-4) were led by their floor general, sophomore guard Maurice Jones, who tied a career high with 28 points and took over the game in the second half when he scored 14 consecutive points.

Jones shot nine for 15 from the field and made all seven of his three-point shots.

The Trojans also got a strong contribution from sophomore forward Dewayne Dedmon, who scored 15 points and had eight rebounds a night after he recorded five fouls in five minutes.

The Gamecocks (2-4) were led in scoring by Damontre Harris, who had 15 points.

More later at latimes.com/sports.

-- Baxter Holmes in Las Vegas