Opinion
3 min read

Cougars Set to Claw Out a Victory at Desert Financial Arena

As the Washington State Cougars prepare to face off against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Cougars, coming off a string of performances that have showcased their resilience and skill, are poised for another showdown on February 24th.


Jan 28, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Washington State Cougars guard Justin Powell (24) shoots the ball against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Austin Nunez (2) in the second half at Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum. Washington State won 75-58. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on February 10th against the Oregon Ducks, WSU emerged victorious with a score of 62-56. Despite being tied six times and experiencing four lead changes throughout the game, they managed to maintain composure and secure the win. Their performance was marked by a solid defensive effort that included four blocks and seven steals while committing only one team turnover. Offensively, they shot 43 percent from both field goals and two-point range while sinking free throws at a rate of 68 percent.


The Cougars' ability to dominate inside was evident as they scored 28 points in the paint. Moreover, their tenacity on defense translated into scoring opportunities as they capitalized with 15 points off turnovers. This balance between offense and defense could be key in overcoming ASU's home-court advantage.


Jan 28, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Austin Nunez (2) shoots the ball against Washington State Cougars forward Andrej Jakimovski (23) in the second half at Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum. Washington State won 75-58. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

WSU's previous encounter before Oregon was against Oregon State Beavers where they again showed their prowess by winning with a score of 64-58. Their three-point shooting was particularly impressive at an outstanding rate of 48 percent which could be pivotal in stretching ASU's defense.


However, it is worth noting that during an intense battle against Washington Huskies earlier this month which went into overtime resulting in a high-scoring affair ending at 90-87 for WSU; it highlighted both offensive efficiency (51 percent field goal shooting) and resilience under pressure – traits that will undoubtedly serve them well against ASU.


Jan 28, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Austin Nunez (2) grabs the ball against Washington State Cougars guard Justin Powell (24) in the second half at Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum. Washington State won 75-58. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

The Sun Devils should not be underestimated though; any lapse in concentration from WSU could be exploited by ASU’s dynamic playmakers who will look to leverage their home court for momentum swings.


With these recent performances as indicators, it seems clear that if WSU maintains its defensive solidity while continuing to execute efficiently on offense – especially beyond the arc – there is every reason for Cougar fans to expect another triumph come game day.


Mark your calendars: The action unfolds on February 24th at Desert Financial Arena starting at 5:00 PM local time (8:00 PM ET). Fans can catch all the excitement live nationally on ESPN2 channel number 209. Don't miss what promises to be an electrifying contest as Washington State looks to add another win to its record!

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