MALIBU, Calif. — Dane Erikstrup played a pivotal role in securing a victory for Washington State over Pepperdine, wrapping up the game with 15 points and 12 rebounds, leading the Cougars to a 90-83 win.
Ethan Price matched Erikstrup’s scoring efforts by also adding 15 points to the scoreboard for the Cougars, who boast an 18-13 record with an 8-10 standing in the West Coast Conference. Price demonstrated his versatility by successfully making 3 of his 6 attempts from beyond the arc, while also contributing defensively with three blocked shots. ND Okafor boosted the team’s performance further by shooting 5 of 6 from the field and converting all three of his free-throw attempts, totaling 13 points for the game.
For Pepperdine, Zion Bethea emerged as the top performer by scoring 22 points and securing two steals. His teammate, Dovydas Butka, significantly contributed with 14 points, nine rebounds, and four steals, while Boubacar Coulibaly added 14 points alongside eight rebounds.
The Cougars established their dominance early in the game with a decisive lead from the 12:20 mark in the first half, maintaining control for the remainder of the match. Ethan Price was instrumental in the first half, notching 13 points to help widen the gap, leading to a 48-34 advantage at halftime.
This game marks the end of Washington State’s first season in the West Coast Conference, where they achieved a respectable sixth-place finish.
