The Washington St. Cougars hosted the California Golden Bears on Saturday afternoon in Pac-12 college hoops action. The Cougars were looking to bolster their losing record within the conference, which stood at 2-4 entering the game. In the end, the Cougars were able to overcome an early deficit and pick up the 77-75 win.
The Golden Bears took a six-point lead into halftime. Although the Cougars began the second half down by a score of 40-34, they battled back valiantly after the break. They closed the gap, then tied the score a couple of times. Finally, with just 3:30 remaining in regulation, the Cougars took the lead on two free throws by Marcus Capers. The 68-67 lead only lasted a few seconds, before the lead changed hands a few times.
Brock Motum made a layup with 1:32 left to tie the game at 74, after which the Cougars defense clamped down before DaVonte Lacy made a three-point jumper with just 17 seconds left to put WSU up, 77-74. A Motum foul with six seconds left resulted in Justin Cobbs of Cal making one of his two free throws. Jorge Gutierrez grabbed the offensive rebound, but his three-point attempt with one second on the clock came up empty. D.J. Shelton grabbed the rebound to seal the win for Washington State.
Cougers guard Faisal Aden led all scorers with 24 points. Motum managed the double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
WSU will play their next game on Thursday, January 26, as they visit the Arizona Wildcats.
For all news and information regarding the Washington State Cougars, please visit CougCenter. For updates and perspective on Cal, head on over to California Golden Blogs.