Washington State Basketball: A Rebirth in the Pacific Northwest

In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, nestled amongst towering mountains and lush forests, lies a basketball program that has long been dormant. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Washington State is experiencing a rebirth.
A History Steeped in Tradition

Washington State University has a rich basketball history, dating back to the early 20th century. In the 1950s, the Cougars made waves under the legendary coach Jack Friel, reaching the NCAA Tournament four times and earning a top-10 national ranking. However, the program fell into decline in the ensuing decades, failing to make any significant postseason appearances.

The Kyle Smith Era

In 2019, everything changed with the hiring of coach Kyle Smith. A young and enigmatic figure, Smith had made a name for himself as the head coach at North Dakota State, leading them to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances.

A New Vision

Upon arriving in Pullman, Smith immediately implemented a new vision for Washington State basketball. He emphasized defense, discipline, and a relentless work ethic. Off the court, Smith focused on building a strong culture, emphasizing character and community involvement.

A Program on the Rise

The results have been nothing short of remarkable. In Smith's first season, the Cougars improved their win total by six games. The following year, they won 14 conference games and reached the CBI Tournament. And in 2021-22, Washington State made history by earning its first NCAA Tournament berth in almost a decade.

Keys to Success

Several key factors have contributed to Washington State's resurgence.

Elite Defense: Under Smith, the Cougars have become one of the best defensive teams in the nation. Their swarming man-to-man defense forces turnovers and limits opponents' scoring efficiency.
Team Chemistry: Smith has created a close-knit team with a strong camaraderie. Players play unselfishly and support each other on and off the court.
Home Court Advantage: Beasley Coliseum, known as "The Kennel," has become a fortress for the Cougars. The raucous crowd creates an intimidating atmosphere that gives Washington State a significant advantage.

The Future is Bright

Washington State basketball is on the rise, and the future looks bright. With a young and talented roster and a dynamic coach leading the way, the Cougars are poised to make even more noise in the years to come.

A Call to Action

If you're a fan of basketball, I urge you to tune in and support Washington State. Their aggressive defense, relentless work ethic, and infectious camaraderie make them a team worth watching. The Pacific Northwest is once again home to a basketball powerhouse, and it's an exciting time to be a Cougar.

As the thunderous roar of the crowd echoes through Beasley Coliseum, it's a testament to the rebirth of Washington State basketball. From the depths of obscurity, they have risen like a phoenix, ready to soar to new heights.