Cougars Clamp Down on Defense, Ride Vavers’ Career Night Past Seattle U
PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State didn’t just win on Wednesday night-they controlled the tempo, dictated the pace, and made sure Seattle U never had a real shot at stealing momentum. In a 70-58 win at Beasley Coliseum, the Cougars leaned on efficient offense, physical defense, and a breakout performance from Rihards Vavers to close out their three-game homestand on a high note.
Let’s start with the numbers that jump off the page: WSU took just 45 shots-its fewest in a game all season-but made more than half of them, finishing at a blistering 55.6% from the field. That kind of shot selection and execution tells you everything about how this team approached the matchup: deliberate, disciplined, and locked in.
And then there’s Vavers. The Latvian sharpshooter caught fire early and never cooled off, pouring in a Division I career-high 24 points.
He knocked down five triples and finished 8-for-11 overall, setting the tone in the first half when he dropped 16 points and helped WSU build a double-digit cushion. His confidence from deep opened up the floor, and Seattle U struggled to find answers.
The Cougars looked like they might run away with it midway through the first half, shooting a red-hot 77% while holding the Redhawks to just 24%. But give Seattle U credit-they punched back late in the period to trim the lead to six at the break, 36-30. Still, WSU never relinquished the edge, and that resilience showed up again in the second half.
That’s when the Cougars turned up the physicality. Seattle’s top three scorers found themselves in foul trouble early in the second half, and WSU capitalized.
ND Okafor took full advantage in the paint, helping stretch the lead to 55-42-the largest of the night. Okafor finished with 13 points, eight boards, and a career-high four assists, showing off a well-rounded game that continues to evolve.
He wasn’t alone. Ace Glass came alive in the second half, scoring all 14 of his points after the break. His energy and shot-making helped keep Seattle at arm’s length whenever they tried to mount a run.
On the boards, Eemeli Yalaho led the charge with nine rebounds, anchoring a WSU defense that held Seattle to a season-low 58 points. Adria Rodriguez chipped in with five assists, keeping the ball moving and the offense flowing.
With the win, Washington State improves its home record and wraps up a solid January stretch. Next up: a rematch with Portland on Saturday afternoon at Beasley Coliseum. The Cougars edged the Pilots 67-62 back in December, and they’ll look to sweep the season series with tip-off set for 3 p.m. on ESPN+.
If Wednesday night was any indication, this WSU squad is starting to find its rhythm-and when they play with this kind of balance and intensity, they’re a tough out for anyone.