Akins leads Washington State to 123-point season-opening win

Washington State defeated Northwest 123-87 in Pullman on November 14, earning its first win of the season. Sebastian Akins led the Cougars with 27 points and five assists, scoring 19 before halftime as Washington State built a 69-42 lead. The 123 points were the team’s most in a game since it scored 131 in the 1990-91 season.

The Cougars shot 45 of 66 from the field, or 68 percent, and outrebounded Northwest 55-24. They scored 68 points in the paint, while holding the Eagles to 20 points inside. Northwest made 14 three-pointers.

Lazerek Houston scored 14 points for Washington State, and Jaylen Harrell added 13. Tyler Kropp scored all 12 of his points in the first half, while Ladji Dembele contributed 11. Freshman Brayden Kyman made his season debut, posting five points and collecting four rebounds across 12 minutes; he blocked two shots shortly after entering the game.

Nick Cubley and Christian Watkins each scored 16 for Northwest. Watkins also had five assists and two steals, while Cubley recorded four steals. Dejuan Sims added 14 points.

Coach David Riley said the team had work to do as it continued building its identity. Washington State next plays Hawaii on November 18.