Area roundup: Idaho will not play Boise State in men’s basketball this season

The football rivalry between the University of Idaho and Boise State University has laid dormant since 2010. Now, the men’s basketball rivalry, which has been played between the two schools since 1971, could follow the same path. 

It’s been confirmed to the Spokesman-Review that Idaho and Boise State will not meet in a nonconference game this season. It was first reported by the Idaho Statesman.

The two schools have played each of the last four seasons in neutral court games in Treasure Valley since Boise State’s departure from the WAC into the Mountain West. Boise State won each game. 

Idaho athletic director Rob Spear confirmed the two schools will not be playing this season. 

“It is unfortunate that Idaho and Boise State are not playing in football or basketball,” Spear told The Spokesman-Review.

Idaho was interested in scheduling a game this season, but Boise State wasn’t willing to find an open date for it. 

Idaho coach Don Verlin has expressed hope in a home-and-home series, but last year said the game would likely be continued to be played in Boise, if at all. 

Meanwhile, the Vandals will continue their home-and-home rivalry with Washington State, hosting the Cougars at the Cowan Spectrum on Dec. 10. 

Pangos signs

Former Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Kevin Pangos has signed a two-year contract with Herbalife Gran Canaria, a Spanish professional team based in the Canary Islands.

Pangos, who played for Dallas in the NBA Summer League, averaged 12.8 points and 3.8 assists in his GU career. He made 322 3-pointers.

American Legion

The AAA state tournament got off to a slow start for Spokane entries the Bandits and Northstars on Friday at Joe Martin Field in Bellingham.

Lakeside Recovery defeated the Northstars 3-1. Michael Walker pitched a complete game in the loss.

Today, the Northstars play Centralia.

Bellingham defeated the Bandits 4-2. The Bandits play Kelso Pacific Tech Construction today.

Gonzaga Prep and Mt. Spokane take the field today when the Junior Legion tournament begins in Olympia.