Preview: Portland Pilots at Washington State Cougars NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. (Interstat) — The Portland Pilots look to continue their push for a winning season when they visit the struggling Washington State Cougars in a nonconference women’s basketball game Thursday at Beasley Coliseum. The Pilots (14-10) enter with momentum, having won three of their last four, including a narrow 53-50 victory over Oregon State on Feb. 7. Portland’s success has been fueled by consistent play, particularly from guard Florence Dallow. Over her last eight games, Dallow is averaging 13.8 points and 2.9 assists, including an 18-point performance in the recent win over the Beavers. Conversely, Washington State (5-21) seeks to halt a prolonged slump, having lost 10 of its last 12 games. The Cougars are coming off a 78-62 road loss to Pepperdine on Feb. 7. Guard Mackenzie Chatfield has been a bright spot, averaging 9.4 points and 4.9 assists over her last seven contests. She dished out eight assists against Pepperdine. This matchup is a rematch from Jan. 2, when Portland defeated Washington State 62-49 at home. Dallow scored 13 points in that victory for the Pilots, who have held opponents under 70 points in five of their last six wins. The game, organized by the West Coast, pits Portland’s recent defensive solidity against a Washington State team that has allowed 80 or more points in four of its last six losses. The Cougars will need to contain Dallow and find consistent scoring beyond Chatfield to improve their record at home. Portland’s upcoming schedule includes a quick turnaround against Santa Clara on Saturday. Washington State travels to face Gonzaga next Thursday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. local time.