Saint Mary’s Gaels vs Washington State Cougars Picks and Predictions for Saturday February 21 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 02/21/2026, 05:20 AM ET

The Saint Mary’s Gaels head to Pullman to face the Washington State Cougars on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Tipoff is set for 10:00 PM ET on ESPN2 from Beasley Coliseum in Pullman, Washington. At the time of this writing, the moneyline, total, and spread have not been released. For more insight on tonight’s slate, make sure to check out our free college basketball picks.

Saint Mary’s Gaels: Rolling Through WCC Play

Saint Mary’s enters this matchup with a 24-4 overall record and a strong 13-2 mark in WCC play. The Gaels have won five straight games, recently picking up victories over Seattle, Pacific, Pepperdine, San Francisco, and San Diego. They have been one of the most consistent teams in the conference all season.

The Gaels are averaging 78.3 points per game while allowing just 64.2 points per contest, one of the better defensive marks among conference teams. They shoot 46% from the field and pull down 40.0 rebounds per game, giving them a steady presence on the glass. Their 15.6 assists per contest reflect efficient ball movement and disciplined offensive execution.

Defense is the foundation for Saint Mary’s. Allowing just over 64 points per game while controlling the boards makes them difficult to score against. They do not rely heavily on steals, but they force opponents into tough half-court possessions and limit second-chance opportunities.

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Washington State Cougars: Inconsistent but Capable

Washington State comes into this game at 12-16 overall and 7-8 in WCC action. The Cougars recently earned a win over Pacific but suffered losses to Gonzaga, Santa Clara, and Oregon State during their last five games. They also picked up a high-scoring win over Portland, showing flashes of offensive firepower.

The Cougars average 77.0 points per game but allow 77.4 points per contest, highlighting defensive inconsistencies. They shoot 47% from the field and collect 34.4 rebounds per game. Their 13.5 assists per contest indicate a solid offensive structure, but rebounding remains an issue against stronger teams.

Washington State’s offense can be dangerous when shots are falling, but their inability to consistently defend and finish possessions on the boards puts them at a disadvantage against disciplined teams like Saint Mary’s.

Saint Mary’s Gaels vs Washington State Cougars Pick

Saint Mary’s Gaels vs Washington State Cougars Spread Pick

Pick: Saint Mary’s to cover (Spread TBD)

Saint Mary’s has been far more consistent on both ends of the floor. Their defensive discipline and rebounding advantage should give them control in this matchup. Washington State’s defensive struggles and inability to match Saint Mary’s on the glass could create separation late in the game.

Saint Mary’s Gaels vs Washington State Cougars Total Pick

Pick: Under (Total TBD)

I’m leaning toward the under here. Saint Mary’s defensive style tends to slow the pace and limit scoring opportunities. If they dictate tempo and control rebounds, this game should stay below a typical Washington State scoring output.

Final Score Prediction: Saint Mary’s 75, Washington State 66

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