Washington State University (WSU) men’s basketball team delivered a commanding performance in their West Coast Conference (WCC) opener, defeating the University of Portland 87-73 on December 28, 2024. This victory marked WSU’s first win in the WCC since joining the conference as an affiliate member, setting a strong precedent for their inaugural season.
Game Highlights: WSU vs. Portland
Ethan Price Shines Bright Ethan Price was the standout player for the Cougars, scoring an impressive 22 points, his first 20-point game as a Cougar. Price also contributed seven rebounds and several assists, showcasing his all-around game. His dominant first half, which included 14 points, helped WSU establish a commanding 51-30 lead by halftime.
Balanced Offensive Performance WSU’s depth was on full display, with five players scoring in double digits. LeJuan Watts added 18 points, shooting 8 of 14 from the field and 2 of 3 from beyond the arc. Watts also contributed seven rebounds and five assists, proving instrumental in maintaining the team’s momentum. Nate Calmese further bolstered the offense with 14 points, including a perfect 3 for 3 from three-point range.
Dominance from Start to Finish The Cougars never trailed after scoring the opening basket. Key moments included a 21-5 run toward the end of the first half, solidifying their lead. Portland’s attempts to close the gap in the second half were met with timely responses from WSU, ensuring the Cougars maintained control throughout the game.
Team Performance and Strategy
Offensive Prowess WSU’s balanced scoring attack was crucial. Alongside Price, Watts, and Calmese, two additional Cougars contributed double-digit points, highlighting the team’s offensive depth and versatility.
Defensive Resilience Defensive stops, including key steals and rebounds, limited Portland’s scoring opportunities. WSU’s ability to adapt to Portland’s adjustments ensured they retained their lead throughout both halves.
Implications for WSU in the WCC
Building Momentum This decisive win improves WSU’s overall record to 11-3 and establishes a 1-0 start in WCC play. The victory provides a morale boost and sets a positive tone as they navigate the competitive landscape of the WCC.
Impact on Conference Standings With this win, WSU is tied for fourth place in the WCC standings alongside teams yet to play conference games. Analysts project that the addition of WSU and Oregon State will elevate the conference’s competitiveness, with WSU poised to contend for a top spot and potentially secure an NCAA Tournament bid.
Upcoming Challenges The Cougars’ next matchup is against Loyola Marymount on December 30, 2024. Continued strong performances will be essential as they face increasingly formidable opponents in the WCC.
Key Takeaways from WSU’s Victory
- Ethan Price’s Leadership: Price’s scoring and rebounding were pivotal in establishing and maintaining WSU’s lead.
- Team Depth: Contributions from multiple players emphasized the Cougars’ well-rounded approach.
- First Half Dominance: A commanding first half gave WSU a cushion to withstand Portland’s second-half efforts.
- Effective Three-Point Shooting: Sharp shooting from players like Calmese played a crucial role in securing the win.
- Defensive Strength: Key defensive plays prevented Portland from gaining momentum.
Conclusion
Washington State University’s 87-73 victory over the University of Portland marks a historic start to their WCC journey. With a strong overall record and a promising conference debut, the Cougars are well-positioned to tackle the challenges ahead. Their balanced offense, led by standout performances from Ethan Price and LeJuan Watts, highlights their potential as a competitive force in the WCC. Fans can look forward to an exciting season as WSU continues its quest for success in the new conference.
For more details on Washington State University’s basketball season, visit the official WSU Athletics website.