Ben Bolch of the LA Times profiles junior big man RouSean Cromwell as a possible key performer with a significant upside, but a player who has been plagued by injuries over the last two seasons. If his solid defense of the Lopez twins of Stanford last year is any indication, a healthy Cromwell (who sat out a second consecutive day recovering form a minor leg injury) will be essential in providing toughness and depth with center Mamadou Diarra sidelined for about 6 weeks after hernia surgery.

Davon Jefferson is still reporting discomfort in his knee after returning to practice a week ago, though he’s expected to play Saturday against Mercer. Taj Gibson reports that his sprained ankle is feeling “a lot better now.” Freshman O.J. Mayo turned 20 Monday.

USC’s Cromwell tries to regain early form (LA Times)