PULLMAN — Washington State slogged through a long stretch of poor offense against San Diego on Thursday night, trying to find any way to snap a dry spell. The Cougars couldn’t stop turning it over, and even as their defense stepped up, they needed baskets to avoid a costly loss.

Riley was referencing the second half of his WSU club’s 65-61 road win over San Diego on Thursday night, which helped the Cougars end a two-game skid. That sets the stage for the Cougs’ next game, a home matchup with struggling Portland at 3 p.m. Saturday, and the improvements Riley and WSU will look to make.

Because of the way four key injuries have shuffled personnel, the Cougar men are trying to make their offense work with a player whose best attributes are on defense.

Washington State forward Dane Erikstrup gives a high-five to forward LeJuan Watts in the first half on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman, Wash. (Geoff Crimmins/For The Spokesman-Review)

The Washington State men's basketball team eventually found their footing on Saturday night in Pullman. The Cougars took the lead late in the first half, overco

Nate Calmese had 23 points, eight assists and three steals as the WSU Cougars rolled past WCC foe Portland 92-70.

Nate Calmese scored 23 points as Washington State beat Portland 92-70 on Saturday night. Calmese added eight assists and three steals for the Cougars (15-5, 5-2 West Coast Conference). Dane Erikstrup added 17 points while going 6 of 10 (4 for 7 from 3-point range) while they also had five rebounds.

The Portland Pilots (6-13, 1-5 WCC) travel to face the Washington State Cougars (14-5, 4-2 WCC) after losing five road games in a row. It begins at 6:00 PM ET on Saturday,.In its

The Loyola Marymount Lions will play host to conference foe San Diego. The teams play Saturday for the first time this season.

The San Diego Toreros will host conference opponent Pepperdine. The teams square off Saturday for the first time this season.

Washington State Cougars (14-5, 4-2 WCC ) vs. Portland Pilots (6-13, 1-5 WCC) Date: Saturday, January 18 Time: 3 PM PT // 6 PM ET Location: Beasley Coliseum - P

The two-time defending state champion Hounds claimed first place in team scoring at a couple of large meets recently