What's Happening?
The Pacific Tigers triumphed over the Pepperdine Waves with a final score of 74-69. The game, held on January 4, 2026, saw Elias Ralph leading the Tigers with 22 points and 10 rebounds. The Tigers, now
holding an 11-6 record, managed to maintain a narrow lead throughout the game, with Ralph scoring 10 points in the first half. The Waves, despite a strong performance from Javon Cooley who scored 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds, could not overcome the Tigers' lead. Styles Phipps contributed 14 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals for Pepperdine, but it was not enough to secure a win.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for the Pacific Tigers as it improves their standing in the West Coast Conference, bringing their conference record to 2-2. For the Pepperdine Waves, the loss extends their losing streak, highlighting challenges in their current season with a 5-12 overall record. The game underscores the competitive nature of the West Coast Conference, where each win or loss can significantly impact team standings and morale. The performance of key players like Elias Ralph and Javon Cooley also highlights individual talents that could influence future games and player development.
What's Next?
The Pacific Tigers will look to build on this victory as they continue their season, aiming to improve their conference standing. For the Pepperdine Waves, addressing the issues that led to their loss will be crucial as they seek to break their losing streak. Both teams will need to strategize for upcoming games, focusing on strengthening their defense and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. The outcome of future matches will be pivotal in determining their positions in the conference and potential postseason opportunities.
