WSU-UW basketball rivalry won't be played this season for first time since 1917 | Notebook
The long-standing basketball rivalry between Washington State and the University of Washington faces a major pause. For the first time since 1917, the two teams will not play a regular-season game during the upcoming schedule. This break in tradition comes after 301 consecutive games between the programs. While the teams are set to meet for an exhibition match in Seattle this October, talks for a regular-season extension failed to produce a deal.
Coaches David Riley and Danny Sprinkle previously agreed to a two-year extension following the conference shifts in 2024. Those two games resulted in wins for Washington. Riley expressed interest in keeping local Northwest rivals on the schedule to support the regional game, while Sprinkle noted that his decisions focus on the specific benefits for the Washington program. The potential matchup this year carried extra weight with roster changes involving players familiar with Riley’s system now wearing Washington jerseys.
In other athletic news, Washington State added a key member to its front office. Tyler Mariucci joins the department as the executive senior associate director of athletics. He moves from Fresno State, where he managed athletic fundraising and ticket operations. During his time there, he helped generate over $35 million in support across three record-breaking years.
Mariucci brings significant experience in navigating athletic transitions. His career includes stints at Cal Baptist, Maryland, and San Diego State. Washington State athletic director Jon Haarlow emphasized the need for strong revenue growth and relationship building as the department navigates its current financial objectives. Mariucci takes charge of the Cougar Athletic Fund and the ticket office effectively immediately.