Loyola Marymount vs. Washington State: College Basketball Preview & Pick | Dan Johnson Analysis

Loyola Marymount Holds Edge in Close Contest Against Washington State

LOS ANGELES – In a West Coast Conference matchup poised to be a tight contest, Loyola Marymount is favored to defeat Washington State, according to analysis by DraftKings Network’s Dan Johnson. The game, scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2026, presents a compelling clash of styles, with Loyola Marymount’s interior defense and steady guard play expected to be key factors.

Johnson’s preview highlights Washington State’s offensive capabilities, noting their ability to score in waves. However, he emphasizes Loyola Marymount’s resilience and comfort in close games as a significant advantage. “Washington State brings the louder offense into Los Angeles, but Loyola Marymount brings the part that usually decides late-February coin flips: resistance,” Johnson wrote.

The analysis points to a key statistical difference between the two teams: interior defense. Loyola Marymount allows only 53.0% on close two-point attempts and 38.5% on farther two-point attempts, showcasing a stout defensive presence in the paint. Washington State, conversely, allows 58.6% on close twos and 43.8% on farther twos. This disparity, coupled with a similar adjusted tempo (67.3) for both teams, suggests that shot quality and half-court control will be crucial determinants of the outcome.

Loyola Marymount’s offensive structure also appears well-suited for this matchup. Myron Amey Jr. Leads the team with a 22.7% usage rate and a low 10.5% turnover rate, providing steady ball-handling. Jan Vide contributes with a 27.9% assist rate, facilitating the offense, while Jalen Shelley adds a 24.4% usage rate and a strong rebounding presence. The Lions’ size, featuring players like Rick Issanza (7-1), Aaron McBride, Joshua Dalton (6-10), and Rokas Jocius (6-10), is expected to challenge Washington State’s shots and control the paint.

While Washington State boasts offensive threats like Ace Glass III and Rihards Vavers, Johnson believes Loyola Marymount’s overall structure and interior defense will prove decisive. He notes that Washington State turns the ball over on 18.5% of possessions, compared to Loyola Marymount’s 17.9%, and doesn’t generate enough defensive chaos to offset those turnovers.

Johnson’s best bet is on Loyola Marymount’s moneyline, currently at +100, playable up to -105. He predicts a final score of Loyola Marymount 76, Washington State 73. “In a short spread, empty trips matter more than broad season résumé edges,” Johnson explained. “The better offense can still lose when it bleeds a few possessions and gives up cleaner interior looks.”

The analyst encourages those interested in following his picks to connect with him on X (formerly Twitter) at @dansby_edits and to join the DKN Betting Group for further insights and shared picks.