Oregon overcomes Washington in wild finish

Kwame Evans Jr. makes clutch free throws in closing seconds to lift Ducks

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In a back-and-forth game, Oregon overcame a late Washington surge to win 85-79 in the regular-season finale. Kwame Evans Jr. made five free throws in the final 2.5 seconds, including three after Washington head coach Danny Sprinkle was assessed two technical fouls, to seal the victory for the Ducks.

Why it matters

This win keeps Oregon's hopes alive for a spot in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament, while Washington will look to regroup after squandering a late lead in the heated rivalry matchup.

The details

Oregon led by as many as 21 points in the first half and was in control for much of the game, but Washington rallied in the second half and took a 79-76 lead with 24 seconds remaining. However, Evans hit a 3-pointer and was then fouled, making three of four technical foul free throws and two more to give Oregon the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday night in Eugene, Oregon.
  • Evans made the game-winning free throws with 2.5 seconds left to play.

The players

Kwame Evans Jr.

The Oregon guard scored a team-high 20 points, including the clutch free throws in the final seconds to lift the Ducks to victory.

Danny Sprinkle

The Washington head coach was assessed two technical fouls late in the game, leading to Evans' game-sealing free throws for Oregon.

Hannes Steinbach

The Washington forward scored a game-high 26 points and had 13 rebounds, but his team was unable to hold on for the win.

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What they’re saying

“We must have poise and discipline in those moments, and we didn't. That's on me as the head coach.”

— Danny Sprinkle, Washington Head Coach (statenews.net)

“My teammates put me in a position to make plays, and I was able to step up and knock down those free throws when it counted most.”

— Kwame Evans Jr. (statenews.net)

What’s next

Both Oregon and Washington will now turn their attention to the upcoming Big Ten Tournament, where they will look to make a deep run and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

This thrilling finish between two longtime rivals showcases the intensity and drama of college basketball, with the game ultimately coming down to a series of clutch free throws in the closing seconds.