Legendary broadcaster Neil Everett sits down with Washington State Men’s Basketball Head Coach David Riley leading into the 509 Classic on December 17 at Spokane Arena.
In a wide-ranging interview, Everett and Riley dug into Spokane ties, the WSU–EWU rivalry, player development, and what Cougar fans can expect when the crimson takes the court.
Watch the full interview on YouTube — and check out some of the highlights below.
“It’s great for the community… it’s gotten lost in college basketball now.”
Right out of the gate, Everett asked Riley what makes this event meaningful for both programs and the region. Riley didn’t hesitate:
“The alumni base in the area is incredible… every time I go to Spokane, there’s a lot of Cougs and a lot of Eagles out there. I just think it’s great for the community… excited to keep that regional rivalry going.”
After 13 years coaching at Eastern Washington before taking the helm at WSU, Riley understands the Inland Northwest basketball culture as deeply as anyone.
Cougs Expectation? Riley Laughs: “Show up and be loud.”
When Everett asked what he expects from Cougar Nation in Spokane, Riley kept it simple:
“Just show up and be loud. That’s what makes Washington State what it is. There’s a lot of passion in this fan base.”
He notes that Spokane is loaded with WSU grads — making this a rare chance for fans to see the team without trekking to Pullman.
Facing the School That Raised You — The EWU Matchup
Riley coached at Eastern from GA to head coach before taking over at WSU. So what’s it like competing against his old program?
“It was pretty different… I had 5 or 6 guys that stayed at Eastern and 4 who transferred to play for me. There was a lot of emotion on both sides—friendly and competitive.”
Even now, he admits:
“It’s a fun time… walking out and seeing the people I used to work with.”
Riley also praised EWU under Coach Dan Monson for their toughness and physical style of play.
A New-Look Cougar Roster Growing Through Fire
WSU is young this year — really young. Riley explained that none of the players who logged major minutes last season returned.
“There’s no one that had significant playing time for me last year on this roster… they’re going through the same battles we went through 3 or 4 years ago.”
The focus now?
“Be more present defensively… get the ball zipping around more offensively… play for each other a little bit more.”
On Ace Glass: “The dude can fill it up.”
Everett pivoted to one of the most exciting freshmen in WSU history — Ace Glass, who broke the program’s freshman scoring record with 40 points this season.
Riley lit up:
“He walked in the door able to score… every two weeks I challenge him and he takes the next step. It’s been a joy to watch.”
If you needed a reason to buy a ticket — that might be it.
Coaching Philosophy: “Help people. Don’t take ourselves too seriously.”
Riley’s coaching identity is rooted in service and perspective.
“My job is to individually help these guys get better and have a good time doing it… we’re playing hoops and we get to be part of a family.”
It’s clear why players love him.
NIL & Why This Game Matters for WSU
The 509 Classic includes a built-in benefit for Cougar student-athletes:
$10 of every WSU-linked ticket goes directly to the program’s NIL collective.
Riley stressed just how vital that is:
“It’s what we need right now… the teams that have guys returning and staying in the program are the ones having success. The only way to do that is through NIL.”
Spokane Ties, Jack & Dan’s, and… Cougar Gold?
Because it wouldn’t be a Neil Everett interview without some Spokane flavor.
Riley shared that:
- He spent summers visiting Spokane — his dad went to Gonzaga Prep.
- He loves The Elk in Browne’s Addition.
- And yes, he’s bringing Cougar Gold cheese to the game.
“I just made a giant purchase of Cougar Gold… everyone loves it.”
“Basketball is all about bringing people together.”
At the end of the conversation, Riley summed up what the 509 Classic means to him:
“It’s two schools, but really one area… basketball is all about bringing the community together.”
That’s the heart of the 509 Classic — and why this annual showdown is becoming a must-see Inland Northwest tradition.
Watch the Full Interview
🎥 Neil Everett x Coach David Riley — Full Conversation:
Watch now on YouTube
