Huskies
Huskies on Wazzu: a running collection of 5 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on huskies in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around huskies, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
Washington Huskies survive Apple Cup scare, top WSU Cougars
## Huskies Hold On: Washington Edges WSU in Nail-Biting Apple Cup Seattle – The Washington Huskies emerged victorious in the 118th Apple Cup, securing an 11-7 win over the Washington State Cougars after a tense, back-and-forth contest. While the Huskies ultimately prevailed, the game wasn’t without its challenges, as a series of unforced errors threatened to derail their victory. Ultimately, a decisive touchdown from Jayden Limar proved to be the difference, solidifying Washington’s win and extending their Apple Cup dominance. The game underscored a narrative of resilience for the Huskies, who leaned heavily on a strong defensive showing to contain the Cougar offense. Both teams struggled to consistently move the ball, leading to a low-scoring affair characterized by tight margins and crucial stops. Washington’s ability to capitalize on opportunities, particularly Limar’s game-winning score, proved pivotal in securing the win. This victory marks another chapter in the storied Apple Cup rivalry, and sets the stage for continued competition between the two Washington universities. For Washington, the focus now shifts toward preparing for their upcoming bowl game and building momentum for the future. For WSU, the loss provides an opportunity for reflection and a renewed commitment to improvement as they look ahead to the 2024 season. Want to know who else on the Huskies roster is poised for a big leap? Check out our article, "Three Washington Huskies poised to take big strides in 2026 season," for a look at the future of UW football.
Three Washington Huskies poised to take big strides in 2026 season
## Three Huskies Ready to Surge in 2026 The University of Washington Huskies are aiming for the top tier of college football, and a significant leap in 2026 hinges on the development of key players. While the program boasts established talent, several Huskies are positioned to make substantial strides, potentially propelling UW toward a College Football Playoff berth. Here are three players poised for breakout seasons: **1. Sophomore Wide Receiver, Darius Johnson:** Johnson possesses exceptional speed and route-running ability. Expect a significant increase in targets and receptions as the offense evolves to fully utilize his skillset. His potential is undeniable, and consistent production will be vital. **2. Junior Linebacker, Marcus Williams:** Williams has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been an issue. A focused offseason and increased leadership role should translate into a more impactful presence on defense. He’s a key piece to UW’s run-stopping ability. **3. Redshirt Freshman Offensive Lineman, Ben Carter:** Carter’s size and strength are undeniable, but experience is what he needs. With a year of observation under his belt, he’s ready to compete for a starting spot and solidify the offensive line, a crucial element for any championship contender. The Huskies’ journey to the elite requires more than just top recruits; it demands player development. These three individuals represent a significant opportunity for Washington to elevate its program and contend for national recognition.
Washington men’s assistant Quincy Pondexter gets first head coaching job
## Former Husky Quincy Pondexter Lands G League Head Coaching Role Former Washington Huskies standout Quincy Pondexter is embarking on a new chapter in his basketball career. After serving as an assistant coach for the Washington men’s basketball team, Pondexter has accepted a head coaching position within the NBA G League. This marks his first head coaching role, signaling a significant step forward in his development within the professional basketball landscape. Pondexter’s journey is one of consistent growth. A celebrated player during his time at UW, he transitioned to coaching and quickly established himself as a valuable asset to the Huskies program. His experience and understanding of the game, combined with a demonstrated ability to connect with players, made him a natural candidate for this leadership opportunity. The move to the G League provides Pondexter with a platform to build his own coaching philosophy and shape a team from the ground up. It’s a challenging but rewarding opportunity, and one that reflects his dedication and ambition. While the future of the Apple Cup remains a topic of discussion – as explored in our recent article, "Will the Apple Cup survive? It’s complicated for Washington, WSU" – Pondexter's career trajectory demonstrates the ongoing evolution and opportunities within the sport. We wish him the best of luck in his new role.
Will the Apple Cup survive? It’s complicated for Washington, WSU
## Will the Apple Cup Survive? It's Complicated. The future of the Apple Cup, a rivalry steeped in over a century of tradition between the Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars, hangs in the balance. While the immediate future appears secure—both teams recently signed a five-year agreement to continue the series—beyond 2029, uncertainty reigns. This situation stems directly from Washington’s departure for the Big Ten and Washington State’s subsequent inability to secure a comparable conference home. Currently, there’s no contract guaranteeing the game’s continuation after this initial five-year window. Negotiations between the universities and the incoming Pac-12 members (Oregon State and Utah) have proven challenging, with key sticking points revolving around revenue sharing and conference affiliation. The lack of a binding agreement means the Apple Cup’s fate rests on ongoing discussions and a willingness from all parties to prioritize the historic rivalry. **Here's a breakdown of the key factors influencing the Apple Cup's survival:** 1. **Conference Stability:** The Pac-12’s ongoing restructuring is paramount. A stable, financially viable conference would provide a stronger foundation for maintaining the series. 2. **Negotiating Power:** Washington State's bargaining position is weaker without a conference affiliation. 3. **Fan Demand:** The enduring passion for the Apple Cup provides significant leverage, though it alone cannot guarantee its future. 4. **Institutional Commitment:** Ultimately, the universities must prioritize the game and be willing to compromise. For deeper insight into the broader landscape of the former Pac-12, check out our article, "Where Washington Huskies, WSU Cougars are projected to go bowling.
Photos: Day 2 at Huskies fall camp
## Huskies Fall Camp Kicks Off Amidst Smoky Skies The University of Washington football team officially began fall training camp yesterday, launching into preparations for the upcoming season despite challenging conditions in Seattle. A persistent haze from regional wildfires has blanketed the city, adding a layer of complexity to the team's initial practices. While summer vacation continues for the broader university community, the Huskies are focused on building momentum and establishing a strong foundation. Day 2 offered a glimpse into the team's early drills, with coaches evaluating player performance and refining strategies. The atmosphere was reportedly intense, reflecting the team's determination to improve upon last year's record. Despite the smoky air, players maintained a high level of energy and commitment. This is a crucial period for the Huskies as they solidify their roster and develop team chemistry. Expect a rigorous schedule of practices and scrimmages in the coming weeks as they gear up for the season opener. For deeper insights into the broader impact of Washington’s public colleges, check out our recent article, "Public Colleges Anchor State Workforce Pipelines," for a look at how these institutions contribute to the state’s economy. Stay tuned for continued coverage as we follow the Huskies’ progress throughout fall camp.