UPDATE: In a gripping showdown, the Washington State Cougars fell to the University of Portland Pilots, 68-61, on February 12, 2026, at Beasley Coliseum. After a commanding start, the Cougars couldn’t maintain their lead, losing ground in the final quarter.
The game began with the Cougars dominating the first quarter, thanks to strong performances from Charlotte Abraham, who led all scorers with 18 points, alongside 8 rebounds and 4 steals. The Cougars held the Pilots to just 2 points for most of the opening quarter, igniting hopes for a decisive victory. According to head coach Kamie Ethridge, Abraham’s work ethic has been a vital asset:
“Her work ethic and her extra work pay off, and that’s a great sign for players that put in the work that she does.”
However, as the game progressed, the Pilots started to close the gap. With an impressive performance from Elonora Villa, who contributed 15 points and 7 assists, the Cougars remained competitive. By halftime, the Cougars were still in the game but lost their grip on the lead amidst a surge from the Pilots.
Emerging from the halftime break, the Cougars tied the game at 33-33 thanks to a series of back-to-back three-pointers. Yet, the Pilots responded quickly, executing a full-court press that shifted the momentum. By the end of the third quarter, the Cougars trailed by 9 points, putting them in a challenging position for the final stretch.
In the fourth quarter, the Cougars fought valiantly to narrow the deficit, with Villa scoring early and the team working diligently to regain control. Despite their efforts, the Cougars fell short, ending the game at 68-61. Alex Covill reflected on the game’s strategy:
“This entire week of practice, we just wanted to focus on moving the ball and being prepared for their pressure.”
Looking ahead, the Cougars will hit the road for two critical games against Gonzaga University on February 19 in Spokane, followed by a matchup against Oregon State University on February 21 in Corvallis. They will conclude their conference season with two home games at Beasley Coliseum against Seattle University on February 26 and Saint Mary’s College of California on February 28.
Stay tuned for updates on the Cougars’ performance as they continue their quest for a strong finish this season. This loss highlights the competitive nature of college basketball, showcasing the need for resilience and adaptability in high-stakes situations.
