Pepperdine Waves vs Washington State Cougars Picks and Predictions January 24th 2026

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Pepperdine Waves vs Washington State Cougars Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves look to pull off a road upset, while the Washington State Cougars aim to defend Friel Court in this non-conference clash.

Line Movement and Odds

Washington State enters as the favorite, but Pepperdine’s free-throw efficiency makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • Pepperdine Spread: +10.5 (-112)
  • Washington State Spread: -10.5 (-112)
  • Pepperdine MoneyLine: +451
  • Washington State MoneyLine: -679
  • Total: 146.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Pepperdine Outlook

The Waves average 69.1 points per game, with Styles Phipps, Aaron Clark, and Michael Ajayi leading the offense. Phipps’ 13 points vs Gonzaga highlighted his consistency, while Clark’s 18 points and 8 rebounds vs Portland showcased his versatility. Pepperdine’s efficiency (76.4% FT, 77th nationally; 6-15 overall record; 3-9 away record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score at the line makes them a dangerous underdog.

Washington State Outlook

The Cougars average 75.7 points per game, with Ace Glass, ND Okafor, and Kymany Houinsou driving production. Glass’ 29 points vs San Diego highlighted his dominance, while Okafor’s 21 points on 80% FG showcased his efficiency. Washington State’s efficiency (46.6% FG, 120th nationally; 8.9 threes per game; 8-13 overall record; 6-5 home record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to dominate at Friel Court makes them tough at home.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on pace and perimeter shooting. Pepperdine thrives on free-throw accuracy and balanced scoring, while Washington State must rely on Glass’ firepower and Okafor’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

Pepperdine: The Waves report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.

Washington State: The Cougars are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Friel Court has been a reliable venue for Washington State, where they’ve gone 6-5 this season. Pepperdine enters with confidence from competitive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Washington State 77, Pepperdine 65

  • Washington State -10.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and rebounding edge suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Under 146.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Washington State’s depth and shooting rhythm should carry them to victory, while Pepperdine’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a moderately low-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Non-conference games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Pepperdine vs Washington State, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.