MALIBU, Calif. (Interstat) — The Pepperdine Waves will look to solidify their winning season record when they host the struggling Washington State Cougars in a nonconference women’s basketball game Saturday at Firestone Fieldhouse.

The matchup, organized by the West Coast, pits teams on opposite trajectories. Pepperdine (14-9) enters having won three of its last four, including a 74-72 road victory at Santa Clara on Jan. 31. Washington State (5-20) snapped a five-game losing streak with an 80-76 win at San Diego on Thursday.

The Waves won the earlier meeting this season, 66-63, in Pullman on Dec. 28. Pepperdine has relied on a balanced attack, led by guard Shorna Preston. She is coming off a strong all-around performance against Santa Clara, posting 15 points, nine rebounds and five assists.

For the Cougars, halting their dismal season requires continued production from guard Malia Ruud. She erupted for a season-high 19 points in 24 minutes off the bench in the win over San Diego, providing a critical spark. Washington State will need similar efficiency from Ruud and starters Mackenzie Chatfield and Eleonora Villa, who combined for 50 points in that victory.

Pepperdine’s defense, which has held opponents under 70 points in nine of its 14 wins, will test a Washington State team that has frequently struggled to score. The Cougars average just 66.2 points per game and have been held under 65 points in 10 of their 20 losses.

The Waves have been strong at home with a 9-3 record in Malibu this season. Washington State is 2-11 in true road games.

After this contest, Pepperdine resumes West Coast Conference play at Loyola Marymount on Feb. 12. Washington State returns home to host Portland on Feb. 12.