WSU vs. Butler basketball final score: Cougs fall in Old Spice Classic first round, 76-69

The Butler Bulldogs got a number of big shots from Kellen Dunham down the stretch to pull away late in a 76-69 win over the Washington State Cougars at the Old Spice Classic on Thanksgiving afternoon.

Dunham amassed a tournament-record 32 points on 9 of 14 shooting, including 6 of 9 on 3s. The sophomore hit three from beyond the arc in the final three minutes, including a deep fadeaway with 54 seconds left to ice the game away.

The game was close throughout, with neither team ever taking more than a two-possession lead until the last minute. WSU seemed to have no answer on the defensive end in the second half for the Butler duo of Khyle Marshall and Dunham. Marshall did his work on the inside, putting up 30 points on 12-18 shooting.

The Cougars got their own stellar offensive performance from DaVonte Lacy. The junior guard poured in 26 points on 7 of 12 from the field. Lacy was selectively aggressive to the basket, and managed to get to the line eight times, where he was perfect.

Ken Bone went with a lineup of Lacy, Ike Iroegbu, Que Johnson, Junior Longrus and D.J. Shelton down the stretch. That combo served the Cougs well throughout the day, but it wasn't enough to close out Butler.

Johnson looked comfortable for the first time this season. With an assortment of drives to the basket and smooth jumpers, he tallied a career-high 11 points 5 on 9 shooting.

Washington State draws Purdue next in the Old Spice Classic consolation bracket. Butler advances to play Oklahoma State in the semifinals.