Opinion
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Stanford Cardinal Set to Challenge Washington Huskies in Seattle Showdown

As the Stanford Cardinal prepare to face off against the Washington Huskies at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion, fans are looking forward to what promises to be a riveting encounter. The upcoming game on February 16 is an opportunity for the Cardinal to showcase their resilience and skill on the court.


Feb 26, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; Washington Huskies guard Keyon Menifield (23) looks to pass against the Stanford Cardinal during the first half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

Analyzing past performances, it's clear that STAN has demonstrated a strong offensive presence. In their recent victory over Idaho Vandals on December 17, they scored an impressive 82 points with a field goal percentage of 56 and were particularly dominant from inside the paint, where they scored 32 points. Their two-point shooting was remarkable at 66 percent success rate, which could be a critical factor against WASH.


However, despite these strengths, there are areas where STAN needs improvement. The December 22 game against San Diego State Aztecs exposed some weaknesses; they lost with only 60 points and struggled beyond the arc with just a three-point shooting percentage of 15. This could be problematic as WASH will likely exploit any perimeter defensive frailties.


Feb 26, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; Washington Huskies guard Koren Johnson (0) and Stanford Cardinal guard Michael Jones (13) wrestle for a loose ball during the first half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, STAN has shown mixed results. Against Idaho Vandals, they managed to block two shots and had two steals but allowed too many turnovers (14). They'll need to tighten up their defense if they want to contain WASH's attack.


The Huskies cannot be underestimated either; their ability to capitalize on turnovers – as seen when San Diego State Aztecs scored 15 points off turnovers – will test STAN's ball security. Moreover, WASH's home advantage might play into their hands as teams tend to perform better in familiar settings.


Feb 26, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; Washington Huskies guard Cole Bajema (22) grabs a loose ball in front of Stanford Cardinal forward Brandon Angel (23) during the second half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at strategies for success in Seattle: maintaining high shooting percentages from close range should remain a priority for STAN while also focusing on reducing turnovers and improving three-point defense.


Cardinal fans should mark their calendars for this thrilling matchup scheduled for February 16th at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion in Seattle. Tip-off is set for late evening local time (February 15th), but due to time zone differences will broadcast live nationally on ESPN2 channel number 209 early morning Eastern Time (4:00 AM). Don't miss out on what promises to be an exciting battle between these two formidable teams!

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