Mountain West Championship Recap
On May 22, 2026, the Washington State Cougars erupted for five runs in the opening two innings, securing a 5-1 victory over Air Force at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. The win not only showcased the Cougars’ offensive firepower but also cemented their place in the championship bracket.
Leading the pitching staff, Nick Lewis, the Mountain West Pitcher of the Year, delivered 8.2 innings of disciplined baseball, fanning 11 batters while allowing just one run. His performance set the tone for a game that swung decisively in Washington State’s favor early on.
At the plate, Gavin Roy paced the Cougars with a pair of hits, two RBIs and two runs scored, while Ryan Skjonsby added a two‑run triple in the first inning that helped stake the team to an early lead. The combined offensive onslaught gave the Cougars a comfortable cushion heading into the later frames.
What’s Next for the Cougars
The momentum carries forward as Washington State prepares to meet top‑seeded San Diego State at 1:05 p.m. MST later in the day. Meanwhile, Air Force’s next challenge arrives at 9:05 a.m. MST when they take on No. 5 New Mexico in a win‑or‑go‑home contest. Both teams will be looking to translate their early‑game successes into deeper runs in the tournament.
The victory underscores the Cougars’ depth and resilience, traits that have been cultivated under head coach Dave McGowan and supported by the athletic programs at Washington State University. Fans and alumni alike are eager to see how far the team can go as the championship unfolds.