The Washington State Cougars will face off against the Loyola Marymount Lions in a highly anticipated matchup on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Gersten Pavilion in Los Angeles. This encounter marks the Cougars’ first return to LMU’s campus since their last meeting 76 years ago, when they first faced each other in December 1950. Earlier in the current season, Washington State narrowly defeated LMU with a thrilling 78-76 victory in Pullman.
Leading the charge for the Cougars is star freshman, who has been recognized three times as the West Coast Conference (WCC) Freshman of the Week. He currently averages 16.0 points per game and made history by scoring 40 points in a single game against Arizona State. His impressive performance places him among the top five scorers in the WCC and in the national spotlight for freshmen.
Adding strength to the team, a key player from Ireland has showcased remarkable shooting efficiency, achieving 59.5% from the field and ranking second in the WCC with 44 blocks this season. He has consistently contributed to the Cougars’ offense, particularly in recent matches where he averaged double digits in scoring. Another standout, true freshman has also excelled since returning from injury, putting up impressive numbers while showcasing his outside shooting skills.
The Cougars’ recent performance saw them struggle against Saint Mary’s, where they were unable to maintain their early momentum, leading to an 83-67 defeat. However, Washington State remains optimistic as they head into this matchup, determined to close out the regular season strong.
Next, the Cougars will take on Pepperdine on Saturday, February 28, in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to their regular season. In their earlier encounter, Washington State achieved a significant 95-79 win against the Waves, demonstrating their offensive depth with six players scoring in double figures.
With several players averaging over ten points per game and the team’s strong shooting percentages across recent games, the Cougars are primed for continued success. The team has displayed a mix of both challenges and triumphs this season, making them a compelling group to watch as they navigate their final games and aim for a strong postseason run. Washington State’s diverse roster, featuring talent from various international backgrounds, adds a unique dynamic that fans are eagerly following.