PITTSBURGH — Washington State led with 32 seconds remaining, but Duquesne’s Kerem Konan converted a three-point play in the final seconds to hand the Cougars a 72-71 loss Tuesday at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse.
Sebastian Akins drove for a layup to put WSU ahead 71-69 with 32 seconds left. On Duquesne’s next possession, Konan tied the game with a driving layup, drew a foul and made the free throw with 12 seconds remaining. The Cougars had one last chance, but Lazerek Houston’s jumper at the buzzer missed.
Washington State led 39-30 at halftime and stretched its advantage to 11 points in the second half. Duquesne rallied, taking a 67-66 lead on an Arness Lawson dunk with 3:13 to play. Houston answered with a 3-pointer to put the Cougars back in front, but Lawson tied the game at 69 before the teams traded baskets in the final minute.
Jaylen Harrell led WSU with 19 points and five assists. Houston added 12 points and five assists, while Tyler Kropp scored 10. The Cougars made 11 of 25 shots from beyond the arc but were outscored 42-32 in the second half.
Konan finished with 13 points and nine assists for Duquesne. Josh Smith also scored 13, and Lawson added 12.
Washington State drops to 0-3, while Duquesne improves to 3-0.
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