NCAA puts USC on probation

The NCAA hit Southern California’s men’s basketball program with two years’ probation because former assistant coach Tony Bland violated NCAA ethics rules when he accepted a bribe to steer players to a business management company.

The Division I Committee on Infractions announced the penalties, which include a $5,000 fine and a 1 percent loss of the private school’s basketball budget. The probation, which does not include a postseason ban, runs until April 14, 2023.

In other college basketball news:

• Texas Tech got its first addition for new coach Mark Adams with transfer forward Kaelen “KJ” Allen signing to play for the Red Raiders following the potential departures of several key players.

• LSU leading scorer Cameron Thomas says he is declaring for the NBA draft and intends to sign with an agent.

• Oklahoma guards De’Vion Harmon and Alondes Williams entered the transfer portal.

• Mitch Ballock, one of the top 3-point shooters in Creighton history, signed with an agent and will not return to the Bluejays.

• Michigan senior Isaiah Livers, who missed the Wolverines’ run to the Elite Eight with a foot injury, is not returning for an extra year of eligibility.

• Duke promoted Nolan Smith, who played for the Blue Devils from 2007-11, to assistant men’s basketball coach.