{
  "id": 888566,
  "title": "Eric Musselman's Connection to Ratliff Twins' Dad Helped USC Recruitment",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/eric-musselmans-connection-to-ratliff-twins-dad-helped-usc-recruitment",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-14T16:28:06.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/eric-musselmans-connection-to-ratliff-twins-dad-helped-usc-recruitment-12323812"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "USC basketball has signed twin four-star recruits Adonis and Darius Ratliff, whose father, Theo Ratliff, had a notable connection to the program. Theo Ratliff, a first-round NBA draft pick, played for several teams during his career, including stops at the Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, and multiple other franchises. Eric Musselman, the head coach at USC, served as an assistant coach for the Hawks during Theo's first season with the team in 2001-02. Adonis Ratliff cited his father's relationship with Musselman as a key factor in his recruitment decision, stating that the coaching staff made him feel supported throughout the entire process, even during a lower body injury recovery. Theo Ratliff emphasized the importance of being supported by a program that remains committed to its players, regardless of their circumstances. The twin brothers will begin their college careers with USC this season, with their first game scheduled against San Diego on December 8.",
  "summary": "Adonis and Darius Ratliff have a unique family connection to head coach Eric Musselman that helped lead them to signing with USC.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}