Zoom Diallo Reflects on Tough Loss to Penn State

Washington basketball player watched game film to learn from mistakes

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

After a disappointing loss to last-place Penn State, Washington guard Zoom Diallo took it upon himself to re-watch the game footage to see where he could have done better to help his team. Diallo admitted to feeling "a little bit of guilt" over his poor performance, which included 3-of-15 shooting and 5 turnovers. However, Diallo bounced back in the next game against Minnesota, converting 7-of-8 shots and scoring 17 points.

Why it matters

Diallo's self-reflection and desire to learn from his mistakes shows a level of maturity and commitment to improving that can be valuable for a young player. The Huskies' loss to Penn State was a setback, but Diallo's response demonstrates the team's ability to regroup and refocus.

The details

In the 63-60 loss to Penn State, Diallo had his worst shooting night of the season, hitting just 3-of-15 shots and missing both of his 3-pointers while scoring 8 points. He also committed 5 turnovers. However, in the next game against Minnesota, Diallo was back in form, converting 7-of-8 shots, including his lone 3-point attempt, and scoring 17 points.

  • On February 13, 2026, Diallo and the Huskies lost to Penn State.
  • On February 15, 2026, Diallo watched the game footage with the coaching staff.
  • On February 16, 2026, Diallo scored 17 points in the Huskies' win over Minnesota.

The players

Zoom Diallo

A 6-foot-4 sophomore guard for the University of Washington basketball team.

Danny Sprinkle

The head coach of the University of Washington basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“We watched it with the coach. I watched the game twice when I went home, just to see where I messed up on not helping the team.”

— Zoom Diallo, Washington Basketball Player

“I felt a little bit of guilt.”

— Zoom Diallo, Washington Basketball Player

“It was hard. It was really hard for the staff. It was one of those when you watch it, it was how do we only score 60 points? We're right at the rim. We missed 17 layups. Like I've never had that as a coach since I've been in Division I.”

— Danny Sprinkle, Washington Basketball Coach

What’s next

The Huskies will look to build on their bounce-back win over Minnesota as they continue their conference schedule.

The takeaway

Diallo's self-reflection and desire to improve after a tough loss shows the maturity and commitment of the young player, which could be valuable for the Huskies as they look to rebound from a challenging season.