PULLMAN, Wash. — With Gonzaga University announcing they accepted a deal to join the Pac-12 starting in 2026, the Washington State University (WSU) Cougars are getting excited to face off against a new regional rival.
"I think it's a great move for the league. I think it is great for us in regional rivalry. So excited about them being with us," said Kamie Ethridge, WSU Women’s Basketball head coach.
“I think it's exciting. You know this, the rivalry between Gonzaga and Washington State, just being in the area is incredible," said David Riley, WSU Men’s Basketball head coach.
This will be Riley’s first season with the WSU Men’s Basketball team after transferring from Eastern Washington University.
Students across campus are also getting pumped for the new addition. The idea of another local rivalry spurred a lot of that excitement.
“I’m just super excited to see the new rivalry form between WSU and Gonzaga. It'll be like the new Huskies rivalry. I mean, we beat one dog this season," said one WSU student. “We can beat the other dogs this season, right?”
Overall, the reaction on campus was a mix of excitement for a potential new rivalry, mirroring that of local businesses and the Gonzaga Bulldogs themselves.