Taking a page out of former ASU quarterback Jake Plummer's code of conduct, Washington State men's basketball coach Dick Bennett apologized Tuesday for flipping off the Washington student section during the Cougars' 66-48 loss to the Huskies.
"I didn't lose my mind, but made an inappropriate gesture," Bennett said. "It's something I've never done. We were just playing badly, and I was more frustrated by that than anything the fans said or did."
On Thursday, Washington State visits Wells Fargo Arena, where Bennett figures to hear plenty from the crowd.
OSU coach back
After missing a game because of a heart condition, Oregon State coach Jay John has returned to the bench.
"Everything is great," John said. "My body has responded fabulously to the medication, and I'm ready to get going."
Oregon State assistant Kevin Mouton filled in for John last week, leading the Beavers to an 88-66 win over ASU. Mouton's performance was everything John had expected.
"When I hired my staff, I hired coaches that I knew could one day evolve into and become head coaches," John said. "All the guys trusted him, and he made a great game plan. I think he will be a fabulous head coach one day."
Marquee matchup
The game of the week in the Pac-10 -- and possibly the country -- features No. 10 Washington against No. 11 UA on Thursday in Tucson. UA and Washington, which have won 16 games apiece, prefer a fast-paced style.
"I imagine it is going to be an exciting game," Washington coach Lorenzo Romar said. "There are going to be a lot of athletes on that floor, and there will be a festive crowd there."
Reach the reporter at matt.reinick@asu.edu.
