What's Happening?
Washington State University secured a victory over Oregon State with a final score of 81-67. The game took place at Numerica Veterans Arena, where the Cougars never trailed, taking the lead just 21 seconds
into the match. Aaron Glass led the team with 16 points, contributing significantly to the win. The Cougars' performance was bolstered by Nd Okafor, who scored 13 points and had four rebounds. Despite Oregon State's efforts to close the gap in the second half, Washington State maintained a strong lead, aided by their dominance in rebounds and effective scoring in the paint. This victory brings Washington State's overall record to 8-9 for the 2025-2026 season and their West Coast Conference record to 3-1.
Why It's Important?
This win is crucial for Washington State as it strengthens their position in the West Coast Conference. The victory not only boosts team morale but also sets a positive tone for their upcoming challenging games against Saint Mary's and Gonzaga. The performance of key players like Aaron Glass and Nd Okafor highlights the team's depth and resilience, especially in the absence of Tomas Thrastarson due to injury. The game also underscores the importance of strategic plays and strong defense, as evidenced by their ability to convert turnovers into points and maintain a significant lead throughout the match.
What's Next?
Washington State is set to face Saint Mary's on January 10, followed by a game against Gonzaga on January 15. These upcoming matches are significant as they will test the Cougars' ability to maintain their momentum against tougher opponents. The team will need to continue leveraging their strengths in scoring and defense to secure further victories. The absence of Tomas Thrastarson will require other players to step up and fill the gap, making these games critical for assessing the team's adaptability and depth.
