Washington State Tops Loyola Marymount 94-77 in WCC Tourney

PARADISE, Nev. — In an impressive display, Ethan Price powered No. 6 seed Washington State to a commanding 94-77 win over Loyola Marymount, the seventh seed, in the West Coast Conference Tournament on Saturday evening.

This victory has advanced Washington State to face No. 3 seed San Francisco in the quarterfinals slated for Sunday. The two teams had a competitive series in the regular season, each securing a win on their respective home courts.

Price was a standout performer for the Cougars, contributing not only 22 points but also collecting five rebounds. Nate Calmese matched Price’s scoring efforts with his own 22 points. Calmese exhibited impressive accuracy by making 9 of his 17 field goal attempts, and he was particularly notable from three-point range, hitting 3 out of 8 shots. He also led the team with seven assists. Meanwhile, Rihards Vavers added to the scoreboard with 16 points, being highly efficient from beyond the arc by shooting 4 for 5, and he was perfect from the free-throw line with 4 out of 4.

On the other side, Loyola Marymount was paced by Myron Amey Jr., who accumulated 16 points and gathered eight rebounds. Jevon Porter was also instrumental for the Lions, providing 13 points, eight rebounds, and contributing two steals. Jan Vide added 10 points to their effort.

Washington State established and maintained control shortly after the game commenced, seizing the lead early and never surrendering it. Price played a crucial role in the first half, scoring 20 points to give the Cougars a 47-39 advantage at halftime. Their momentum continued into the second half as they extended their lead to 58-40 following an 8-0 run. Calmese emerged significantly in the second half, tallying a team-high 13 points to help the Cougars secure the victory.