USC To Claim They Weren't Even Aware of Basketball Program LOS ANGELES, California - According to multiple sources close to both the NCAA and USC's Athletic Administration, USC is preparing a unique defense against accusations that OJ Mayo accepted over $30,000 in illegal benefits while enrolled. This defense will include the assertion that USC was unaware that they even had a basketball program. When reached for initial comment, Mike Garrett responded, "Wait, we play basketball? Really? I thought that was just Pete Carroll playing a big practical joke on me. I mean, honestly....have we ever been good at basketball?" When a reporter conveniently pointed out to Garrett that USC made the Sweet 16 last year, Garrett asked, "Is that like the Orange Bowl?"