In a thrilling matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Washington State Cougars secured their first NCAA Tournament victory in 16 years. The Cougars, led by head coach Kyle Smith, overcame adversity and made history on the hardwood.
The Long-Awaited Triumph for the Washington State Cougars
The last time Washington State tasted March Madness success was way back in 2008, when a young Klay Thompson donned the crimson and gray uniform. Fast forward to 2024, and the Cougars found themselves back in the big dance, hungry for redemption.
Their opponent in the first round? The Drake Bulldogs. The stakes were high, and the Cougars knew they had to seize the moment. And seize it they did.
The game was a gritty affair, with both teams leaving it all on the court. Washington State’s dream season was on the line, and they weren’t about to let it slip away. Down by eight points with just six minutes remaining, the Cougars rallied. They made a slew of big plays, clawing their way back into contention.
WASHINGTON STATE GETS ITS FIRST NCAA TOURNAMENT WIN IN 16 YEARS 😨 pic.twitter.com/3UP9PwlUOS
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 22, 2024
Isaac Jones led the charge for the Washington State Cougars, dropping 20 points on the Bulldogs. But it wasn’t just Jones; Jaylen Wells and Andrej Jakimovski stepped up with critical baskets. However, the defining moment came from freshman guard Isaiah Watts. With 1:53 left on the clock, Watts drained a clutch 3-pointer from the right wing, giving Washington State its first lead since early in the second half.
The opening minutes were a test of poise for the Washington State Cougars. Participating in the NCAAs for the first time in over a decade, they faced the pressure head-on. Myles Rice kicked things off with a three-pointer, and Washington State took an early 15-9 advantage. The Bulldogs responded with a 12-point run, but the Cougars weathered the storm.
Next up for Washington State? A showdown with the No. 2 seed, Iowa State, champions of the Big 12. The Cyclones will have home-court advantage in Omaha, but the Cougars are no strangers to road victories. Their wins at Arizona and Oregon earlier in the season have instilled confidence.
Read More- LeBron James Gifts Duquesne Dukes Shoes Before NCAA Tournament Clash
