The upcoming basketball season promises an action-packed ride for Washington State University (WSU) fans, with a jam-packed schedule of 33 games. But here's the catch: the Cougs' performance in the previous season has left fans with mixed emotions. So, will they rise to the challenge this time?
The Season Opener:
On January 9, the camera captured Butch's spirit at a men's basketball game against Pacific, setting the tone for the upcoming season. The real action begins on October 25, 2025, with an exhibition game against New Mexico, followed by the official season opener against the Idaho Vandals on November 3 at Beasley Coliseum.
A Recap of the Last Season:
In the 2024-25 season, the Cougs secured the 6th spot in the WCC with a conference record of 8-10 and an overall impressive 19-15 record. But the real test lies ahead.
Conference Games Breakdown:
- @ Portland, Dec. 28: The Cougs' first conference game is against Portland, whom they defeated 92-70 last season. Portland, finishing 8th in the conference, will seek redemption on their home court. The rematch is set for January 27, adding an early layer of intrigue.
- @ Seattle, Dec. 30: Seattle, with a balanced conference record of 8-8 and an overall 14-18, will host the Cougs on December 30, with the return game on January 27 at Beasley Coliseum.
- vs. LMU, Jan. 2: Loyola Marymount University (LMU), ranked 7th last season, will visit Beasley Coliseum on January 2. The Cougs dominated LMU 73-59 last year, but the Lions will be hungry for revenge. The second matchup, near the season's end, will be a crucial test.
- vs. Oregon State, Jan. 4: Oregon State, a formidable opponent with a 10-8 conference record and an overall 20-13 record last season, will challenge the Cougs on January 4. The Beavers won the last encounter, 82-74. The quick turnaround for the second game, scheduled for early February, adds an exciting twist.
- @ Saint Mary's, Jan. 10: Saint Mary's, the top-ranked team in the conference last season with an impressive 17-1 conference record and a 29-6 overall record, will host the Cougs on January 10. The Cougs will aim to avenge their two losses to Saint Mary's last season.
- vs. Gonzaga, Jan. 13: Gonzaga, the 2nd-place finisher last season with a 14-4 conference record and a 26-9 overall record, will visit Beasley Coliseum on January 13. The Cougs will seek to reverse their two losses to Gonzaga in the previous season.
- @ San Francisco, Jan. 17: San Francisco, the 3rd-place team last season with a 13-5 conference record and a 25-10 overall record, will host the Cougs on January 17. Despite winning the
