Washington State Cougars Tickets

Washington State Cougars Mens Basketball

The Washington State Cougars enter their second season under coach Dick Bennett. In Bennett's first year, he led the team to a 13-16 overall record, finishing 7-11 in the Pac-10. Bennett has several college basketball programs in the state of Wisconsin, including the University of Wisconsin Badgers, the team he led to the Final Four in 2000.

If his history is any indication, then Washington State should be taking another step in the right direction. The Cougars lose their leading scorer from last season, Marcus Moore, but that shouldn't be a problem as Bennett puts a premium on defensive ability. Thomas Kelati will be the Cougars' best outside option, a 40+ percent three-point shooter. He can also bring the ball up the court, so he will effectively replace Moore at the point. Jeff Varem plays big for a 6'6" guard, and can post up. A couple of freshman, Robbie Cowgill and Chris Henry, are expected to make immediate contributions in the paint, as they'll take over when seniors Shaminder Gill and Chris Schlatter move on.

Washington State may not look good on paper, and their style won't lead to a lot of low scoring games, but they can keep every game close. They'll steal at least a few games, and might make some noise as a bubble team when NCAA Tournament Time comes around.