Cougars Claw Back to Victory Over Beavers at Beasley Coliseum
The Washington State Cougars improved their season record to a balanced 1-1 after a hard-fought battle against the Oregon State Beavers, ending with a score of 65-58. The Cougars' comeback was highlighted by an impressive second-half performance, while the Beavers fell short despite their bonus period efforts.
In front of a crowd of 2,524 at the Beasley Coliseum, the home team displayed resilience and strategic execution. The Cougars trailed at halftime with only 21 points against the Beavers' 24 but surged back in the second half to add an impressive 44 points to their tally. This remarkable turnaround was underpinned by Washington State's superior shooting accuracy; they finished with a field goal percentage of 48 percent compared to Oregon State's 36 percent.
Washington State's defense was particularly noteworthy as they amassed seven blocks over the course of the game, effectively stifling many of Oregon State's scoring attempts. Offensively, they were led by precision from both inside and outside the arc, making five three-pointers at a rate of 36 percent and converting two-point shots at an even more efficient rate of 54 percent.
Free throws were another area where Washington State excelled; they capitalized on these opportunities by making an outstanding 22 out of their total attempts which accounted for an impressive free throw percentage rounded up to about eighty-two percent. This proficiency from the line played a crucial role in sealing their victory.
The Cougars also demonstrated strong teamwork with thirteen assists contributing significantly to their offensive flow. Despite committing twelve turnovers during play – one less than what Oregon State managed – it was Washington State’s ability to convert defensive plays into points that made all difference; they scored eight fast break points and four points off turnovers.
On Oregon State’s side, despite falling behind in overall scoring efficiency, there were some positive takeaways from this conference game. They showed exceptional accuracy from free throw line hitting ten out ten shots which rounds up approximately ninety-one percent success rate. Their effort on rebounds matched that of Washington States', each pulling down thirty-one boards throughout contest but it wasn't enough overcome deficit created by Cougar’s second-half surge.
Looking ahead for fans eager see if Washington state can continue its winning ways: The next challenge for them will be against Oregon Ducks scheduled on January sixth at seven PM local time in Pullman’s own Beasley Coliseum broadcasted nationally on ESPNU channel two hundred eight.