The Gonzaga Bulldogs rode the hot hand of Kevin Pangos to victory against the Washington St. Cougars. Pangos took 14 three pointers and nailed nine of them as WSU's perimeter defense was spotty throughout the game. Pangos finished with 33 points to pace Gonzaga to a big second half lead as the Bulldogs held on to victory. Robert Sacre added 15 points (13 of 13 free throws) and eight rebounds and Elias Harris chipped in with a double-double (14 points, 10 rebounds).
Washington State trailed by double-digits for most of the game before managing a late flurry to cut the lead to two possessions, but the rally came too late. Brock Motum put up 17 points and seven boards, Reggie Moore had 14 points and five assists, Mike Ladd chipped in with 13 points, Faisal Aden put up 12 points and DaVonte Lacy had 11 points.
The Cougars actually were a more efficient shooting team than the Bulldogs, but were outrebounded 33-21 and surrendered 37 free throws down the stretch (many of them coming down the stretch). It was a strong victory to start the season for Gonzaga, and a big learning experience for a Washington State team adjusting to life without Klay Thompson.
To discuss the game with Washington State fans, head to CougCenter. Talk to Gonzaga fans by checking out The Slipper Still Fits.