PULLMAN, Wash. (AP) — Ernie Kent came away from his first season at Washington State convinced the Cougars needed to improve their defense and athleticism to make progress in 2015-16. Judging from WSU's opening game, progress has been made in both areas.
Washington State's quickness was on display at both ends of the court in an 80-70 win over Northern Arizona. Friday night's nonconference game at Beasley Conference was the season opener for both teams.
"At times, I thought they were outstanding defensively," Kent said, "particularly with the full-court pressure when we cranked it up.