Can the Cougars' Clutch Free Throws and Blocks Seal Victory Over Ranked Wildcats?

The Washington State Cougars edged out a close contest against the Arizona Wildcats with a final score of 73-70. The Cougars, unranked in this matchup, improved their record while handing the number 8 ranked Wildcats another notch in their loss column. The game was held at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman, where 3,564 fans witnessed an intense conference game that saw six ties and seven lead changes.

The home team's performance was highlighted by their impressive accuracy from the free-throw line and a strong defensive presence under the rim. The Cougars shot an outstanding 81 percent from the charity stripe, making 17 of their 21 attempts. This sharpshooting proved crucial in securing their three-point victory over the Wildcats. Additionally, Washington State dominated defensively with eight blocks compared to Arizona's two.

Offensively, Washington State showed efficiency inside the arc with a two-point field goal percentage of 51, converting on 22 out of 43 attempts. Their overall field goal percentage stood at a solid 46 percent as they made good use of their possessions to tally up points in paint totaling to an even split of thirty-four each for both teams.

Despite committing one less turnover than Arizona's ten, it was Washington State's ability to capitalize on these opportunities that made a difference; they scored twelve points off turnovers while holding Arizona to thirteen points off turnovers. Moreover, both teams grabbed eight fast break points each but it was Washington State’s more balanced attack that ultimately tipped scales in their favor.

Arizona did not go down without showcasing its strengths; they pulled down an impressive total rebound count of forty-eight compared to thirty-seven by Washington State. However, even with this advantage and shooting more frequently from beyond the arc—twenty-four three-point attempts—their lower shooting percentages across all fronts could not keep pace with Washington State’s execution when it mattered most.

Looking ahead for fans eager to follow their team’s progress: The next challenge for the Washington State Cougars will be against Stanford Cardinal at Maples Pavilion on January 18th at 8:00 PM Pacific Time. This away game will be broadcasted live on Pac-12 Network for supporters who want to catch every play as it unfolds.