Preview: Washington State at Gonzaga SPOKANE, Wash. (Interstat) — The fourth-ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs, riding one of the nation’s best records, host the struggling Washington State Cougars in a West Coast nonconference men’s basketball matchup Tuesday night at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaga (23-2) has dominated the series and enters as a heavy favorite, particularly after handing the Cougars an 86-65 defeat in Pullman just over three weeks ago on Jan. 15. In that game, Bulldogs forward Graham Ike scored 23 points and dished five assists, overpowering Washington State inside. Ike has been on a tear since, averaging 28.0 points over his last four games. He is coming off a 35-point, 38-minute performance in an 81-61 road win at Oregon State on Saturday. Washington State (11-15) has lost three straight and six of its last eight. The Cougars are coming off a 96-92 home loss to Santa Clara on Saturday, a game in which they surrendered a 17-point second-half lead. Guard Eemeli Yalaho led the team with 21 points in that loss and has been a bright spot, averaging 18.4 points over his last five contests. His production will be critical for a Cougars team seeking an offensive spark. The Bulldogs have been nearly unbeatable at home this season and their defense, allowing just 66.2 points per game, will challenge a Washington State squad that has shown inconsistency. The Cougars have eclipsed 90 points four times this season but have also been held under 70 in seven of their losses. For Washington State, containing Ike and improving its defensive focus after the late collapse against Santa Clara will be paramount. Gonzaga aims to maintain its momentum and national seeding as it continues pursuit of a West Coast Conference title. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. PST Tuesday. Gonzaga travels to Santa Clara on Saturday, while Washington State hosts Pacific next Wednesday.