At this point in Kamie Ethridge’s tenure, a 6-1 start almost feels like second nature.

It is a testament to Ethridge’s vision and leadership in her fifth year as head coach of the program that fans can feel that way.

The Cougs posted back-to-back 20-point wins, beating South Dakota State 61-41 and Montana 77-57 for the first time since 2018-19.

However, the Cougars’ history is not as flashy as the last five years have been.

WSU has beaten Portland only once and trails the all-time series 6-1.

Charlisse Leger-Walker and Bella Murekatete will be the go-to gals for a Cougar squad that is red hot.

Leger-Walker has recorded double-digit performances in every game last season, as part of her eight-game streak which includes her 20-point performance in the NCAA Tournament against Kansas State.

Murekatete has been a scoring force for the Cougs and has emerged to be more consistent in her third year on the Palouse.

Astera Tuhina has emerged as a remarkable freshman for the Cougs. A scoring coming-out game for her could be in the works as WSU prepares for only their second true road game of the season.

WSU will face Portland at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Chiles Center in Portland, Oregon.  The game will be broadcast by Ann Schatz and Jennifer Mountain on WCCSports.com and by Steve Grubbs of WSU Radio.