12/03/2008

Associated Press

Seven freshmen, led by Klay Thompson with 14 points, helped Washington State beat Idaho State 60-41 Tuesday night.

Aaron Baynes added 11 points and eight rebounds for Washington State (6-1), while freshman DeAngelo Casto had eight rebounds and three steals.

Amorrow Morgan and Donnie Carson each scored nine points for Idaho State (1-5).

Idaho State struggled in the first half, scoring only 15 points and shooting 31 percent from the field. Washington State led 30-15 at halftime.

The Bengals improved their shooting to 36 percent in the second half, but by then foul trouble limited their play inside. Idaho State shot 34 percent for the game

"We could not get the ball in to the post players and that was the difference, that and we got into foul trouble," said Idaho State coach Joe O'Brian. "They are a great defensive team."

The Cougars connected on 47 percent of their shots.

Washington State played an aggressive game, with Baynes dominating Demetrius Monroe, the Bengals' leading scorer, who managed just two points and two rebounds.

"I think it's important to come out with some intensity and play hard, especially after a long road trip. I'm proud of how our team responded defensively," Baynes said after the game.

"I like the way Aron came out and played, especially stopping their best player and outrebounding that team, it was a good game for us," WSU coach Tony Bennett said.

Bennett used the game to test his young team. The seven freshmen included Charlie Enquist, who scored six points and grabbed three rebounds.

"It was a chance to see how the freshmen played," Bennett said. "I challenged them to go out and defend. I think we allowed too many shots, but they are young and learning."