Wed Dec 03 04:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the Oregon Ducks’ rough start to the basketball season, based on the provided text:

Headline: Oregon Ducks’ Struggles Deepen: Coach Altman Takes Blame Ahead of USC Matchup

EUGENE, Ore. – The Oregon Ducks men’s basketball team is facing mounting pressure after a shaky start to the season, culminating in a winless showing at the Players Era Festival. Head Coach Dana Altman has taken full responsibility for the team’s underperformance, particularly after losses against Auburn, San Diego State, and Creighton.

“We’re a poorly coached team,” Altman admitted. “This is all on me. Our parts are better than what we’re playing right now… Coaching is about trust and the players don’t trust what I’m saying.”

The Ducks, currently 4-3, had narrow escapes against Hawaii and Rice, followed by an uneven win over Oregon State. The team’s offensive struggles are stark, highlighted by poor shooting percentages, a reliance on three-pointers, and a lack of consistent inside play. Defense has also been a major concern, with opponents finding easy baskets.

Key players like Takai Simpkins have shown flashes, but the team is lacking consistent contributions from other members of the roster. Altman expressed disappointment in players like Devon Pryor and Dez Lindsay, who he believes have yet to find their rhythm. The development of reserves in the frontcourt rotation also remains a work in progress.

The challenges don’t get easier as Oregon opens Big Ten play tonight against No. 24 USC. Injuries to key players like Nate Bittle (ankle) and Devon Pryor (groin) add to the uncertainty. Following the USC game, they travel to UCLA before a highly anticipated matchup with Gonzaga looms later in the month.

With the team currently ranked a dismal 192 in the NET rankings, Altman is urging his players to focus on improvement rather than analytics. “We got to worry about getting better and take the next step,” Altman said. “This is an important month for us to get better and we’re going to have to make some strides.”

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