The Pac-12 conducted its basketball media day in Los Angeles today, and in news that will shock nobody given the results of the past couple of years and the turmoil surrounding the program, it was announced the WSU Cougars were picked by media members to finish last in the conference.
In similarly not shocking news, coach Ken Bone said he is "extremely excited about this year's team," and guard DaVonte Lacy said he doesn't pay attention to prognosticators.
"We can run with it and use that as a stepping stone, as like a chip on our shoulder," Lacy said. "But I don't really pay attention to it. It doesn't really affect me at all."
The problem that faces the basketball team is one that the football team is dealing with: It's possible the Cougs could be better -- even substantially better -- and not see a dramatic uptick in wins because of the improving strength of the rest of the conference.
"Yeah, maybe (the conference) deserved to take a little bit of a beating (in national reputation) a few years ago. But those years are gone," Bone said. "Those are definitely behind us. I think last year, with five teams getting into the NCAA Tournament, and I think it was close to six, and then two of those teams in Arizona and Oregon making it to the Sweet 16, I would be surprised if we don't have more teams in the NCAA Tournament this next year, like six or seven."
Bone was not asked about the departure of Danny Lawhorn or the status of Jordan Railey, who remains suspended. He did indicate that he felt good about his guards, particularly Royce Woolridge's ability to run the point and the ability of Ike Iroegbu to contribute immediately ("He's going to be a very good player in this league").
You can watch the entirety of Bone's and Lacy's comments in the video above, or read them all here. Take a look at the poll below -- you agree with where WSU is placed?
| Team (First place votes) | Pts. |
1 | Arizona (21) | 273 |
2 | UCLA (1) | 212 |
3 | Colorado (1) | 211 |
4 | Oregon | 196 |
5 | California | 194 |
6 | Stanford | 166 |
7 | Arizona State | 159 |
8 | Washington | 121 |
9 | Utah | 68 |
10 | Oregon State | 67 |
11 | USC | 63 |
12 | Washington State | 39 |