Full Breakdown
Washington State Cougars Defeat Oregon State Beavers 81-67
1/5/2026, 8:41:14 PM
Game Overview
On February 22, 2024, the Washington State Cougars secured an 81-67 victory over the Oregon State Beavers in Pullman, Washington. This win marked the Cougars' third consecutive victory in the West Coast Conference, improving their overall record to 8-9 and conference record to 3-1. The Beavers, meanwhile, fell to 8-9 overall and 1-3 in conference play.
Key Performers
Aaron Glass led the Cougars with 16 points, shooting 7 of 15 from the field, while ND Okafor and Jerone Morton contributed 13 points each. Okafor's performance included a shooting percentage of 75% from the field, while Morton excelled from beyond the arc, hitting 3 of 5 attempts. For the Beavers, Dez White was the standout player, scoring 16 points and recording three steals, followed by Isaiah Sy with 11 points.
Game Dynamics
Washington State took control early, leading 9-0 within the first two minutes. Despite a slow start, Oregon State managed to respond with an 8-0 run, narrowing the gap to 14-12. However, the Cougars quickly regained momentum, extending their lead to 47-33 by halftime. In the second half, Oregon State attempted to close the gap, cutting the lead to 11 points at 66-55, but Washington State maintained a comfortable advantage, ultimately winning by 14 points.
Rebounding and Defense
A significant factor in the game was Washington State's dominance on the boards, securing 14 offensive rebounds compared to Oregon State's six. This disparity allowed the Cougars to capitalize on second-chance opportunities, contributing to their scoring. Oregon State's defensive struggles were evident, particularly in perimeter defense, which allowed Washington State to make seven three-pointers in the first half.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the game, Washington State's head coach David Riley praised his team's effort, highlighting their ability to maintain control throughout the match. In contrast, Oregon State's coach Wayne Tinkle acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in rebounding and defensive execution.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Oregon State's performance pointed to their inability to secure rebounds and their slow start as critical factors in the loss. The Beavers have faced challenges this season, with this defeat marking their second consecutive loss by double digits, raising concerns about their consistency and competitiveness in the conference.
What's Next
Washington State will face Saint Mary's on January 10, followed by a matchup against Gonzaga on January 15, both crucial games as they aim to improve their standing in the West Coast Conference. Oregon State will need to regroup and address their rebounding and defensive issues as they prepare for their upcoming games.
