Washington State University Athletics
Photo by: Emma Decasa
Stifling Defense From Chinyelu Helps Lead Surge in Cougs 79-57 Win
January 25, 2024 | Men's Basketball
True freshman Rueben Chinyelu spurred on a second-half surge in win over Utah
PULLMAN, WASH. -- Coming off a defeat at the hands of Cal in Berkeley, WSU was looking to get back into the win column. After what was a sluggish start to the game with both teams struggling to score, two blocks by true freshman Rueben Chinyelu coupled with two 3-pointers by Andrej Jakimovski helped push the Cougs to a 33-24 lead.Â
"My job was to come here and do what I usually do. Take care of business and trust the process," Chinyelu said.
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After the aforementioned lead was cut to three at halftime, the Cougs came out with a sense of energy and were able to stretch the lead to as large as 22 points. Asked what the key was to the second-half surge, Chinyelu said, "We just wanted to come out and play our game. We were able to get stops, get out in transition, and stretch the lead."
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Chinyelu finished with four points, five rebounds, and three blocks in an efficient 13 minutes of game time. WSU looks to continue its winning ways when the Cougs play host to the University of Colorado at 2 p.m. Saturday from Beasley Coliseum.
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Players Mentioned
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