In a standout performance, sophomore point guard Jordan Pope of the Oregon State Beavers was named the Pac-12 Player of the Week. The recognition comes on the heels of the Beavers’ challenging road trip, which included a 74-47 loss at Utah and a 90-57 loss at Colorado, dropping their season record to 9-9 (1-6 Pac-12). Returning home, the Beavers faced the formidable #9 Arizona Wildcats on Thursday, January 25th.
Photo Cred: AP News
Despite trailing 44-36 at halftime, Oregon State mounted a comeback, resulting in a thrilling back-and-forth game. With the score tied at 80-80 and only 11 seconds left, Jordan Pope seized the moment, sinking a step-back three-pointer over the outstretched arms of 6’4″ guard KJ Lewis as the buzzer sounded. Pope’s game-winning shot secured an 83-80 victory, marking the Beavers’ first win against a top 10 opponent at home since the 2015-16 season.
Photo Cred: USA Today
Pope’s remarkable night included 31 points on 9-15 shooting, going 5-8 from beyond the arc, and contributing 5 assists. The momentum carried into the weekend as the Beavers defeated the Arizona State Sun Devils 84-71. Pope continued his impressive play with 19 points on 8-13 shooting, along with 4 rebounds and 6 assists. With these performances, Pope’s season averages stand at 17.8 points per game, 3.7 assists, and 2.5 rebounds. Oregon State now looks to build on their success as they face UCLA and USC on the road, aiming to climb out of the Pac-12 cellar.
