Mercer Bears at Washington State Cougars, Picks and Prediction for Saturday, December 20, 2025 Bears at Cougars Preview

By: Garrett Beaverson Published 12/20/2025, 09:36 AM ET
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The Mercer Bears travel to Pullman, Washington, to take on the Washington State Cougars on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Beasley Coliseum. Get in on the action with our free NCAAB picks.

Mercer Bears Analysis

Mercer enters this game with a 7-4 record, boasting one of the more efficient scoring offenses among mid-majors. The Bears are averaging about 80.7 points per game and have a strong field-goal percentage, making them a dangerous opponent on both sides of the ball.

Team Overview and Metrics Mercer shoots 46.4 % from the field and averages 9.0 made three-pointers per game, while their defense gives up roughly 74.6 points per contest. Over their last ten games, they’ve posted solid rebounding and assist metrics, indicating balanced playmaking.

Strengths

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  • Balanced scoring: Baraka Okojie leads the Bears with strong offensive production, backed by sharpshooter Quinton Perkins II from deep.

  • Three-point efficiency: Mercer’s ability to knock down threes at a high rate stretches defenses and creates space.

  • Ball movement: High assist numbers reflect team chemistry and ability to find open shots.

Weaknesses

  • Road performance: The Bears are 2-4 away from home, and long travel could impact rhythm.

  • Defensive stops: Mercer’s defense can be inconsistent, particularly against athletic wings and big guards.

  • Turnovers: A high-tempo offense can sometimes lead to turnovers in transition. (Inferred from pace and assist/turnover context)

Washington State Cougars Analysis

Washington State has struggled this season but enters this game with renewed confidence after snapping a five-game losing streak with a 78-63 win over Eastern Washington, led by Emmanuel Ugbo’s 20-point outing.

Team Overview and Metrics

The Cougars sit at 4-8 for the season, averaging around 75.5 points per game while allowing 77.3 points per contest. Washington State shoots well from the field and has shown the ability to rebound and generate steals, though defensive lapses have kept them on the wrong side of several results.

Strengths

  • Perimeter scoring: Guard Aaron Glass is Washington State’s leading scorer, averaging roughly 15.3 points per game, and can take over offensively.

  • Recent momentum: The Cougars snapped a losing streak and will look to carry energy into this matchup.

  • Rebounding ability: Washington State’s rebounding margin has been respectable, helping trim defensive possessions.

Weaknesses

  • Defense: Washington State gives up over 77 points per game, ranking near the bottom nationally in points allowed.

  • Turnovers: Cougars average around 13.3 turnovers per game, which could hurt against Mercer’s pressure defense.

  • Inconsistency: Long scoring droughts and defensive lapses have plagued the Cougars this season.

Standout Players and Key Matchups

Mercer

  • Baraka Okojie: Dynamic scorer and playmaker, averaging around 15.8 points, making him a focal point of the Mercer offense.

  • Quinton Perkins II: Efficient three-point shooter with a high volume of makes.

Washington State

  • Aaron Glass: Leading scorer for WSU, capable of creating his own shot and leading runs.

  • Eemeli Yalaho: Contributes scoring and rebounding, adding depth to Washington State’s attack.

Prediction Reasoning

This game features an intriguing contrast: Mercer’s efficient and balanced offense versus Washington State’s athleticism and improved confidence after its recent win. Mercer’s proficiency from beyond the arc and strong ball movement gives them a scoring edge, and enough to take the shot on the underdog.

Final Score Projection: Mercer 83, Washington State 77

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