Mike Sando

Paul Mencke takes nutritional advice from a guy who weighs 300 pounds, so it might be a stretch to consider him the "logical" choice to become Washington State's next starting quarterback. But he's in the running, for sure. There was little doubt of that Monday as Mencke and the defending Pacific-10 Conference champions opened spring football practices in Martin Stadium. Mencke, the former two-sport star at Lewis and Clark High School, has added about 15 pounds to his 6-foot-5 frame. The 232-pounder has been a regular in the weight room this offseason, but he also credits his roommate, 300-pound lineman Joe Criscione, with giving him a nutritional edge.

Full steam ahead. Last year the Washington State football team enjoyed one of its best seasons ever, but many of the best players are gone and coach Mike Price will be busy this spring filling the gaps. File/The Spokesman-Review

As the NFL draft approaches, former WSU quarterback Ryan Leaf is riding high. File/The Spokesman-Review

Bob Bender is used to making his case to the refs, but now the UW coach must turn his attention to NCAA Tournament selection committee members. Photo by Associated Press

In Washington State's 78-71 victory over USC Saturday, Chris Crosby hit the pivotal 3-pointers. Carlos Daniel and Steve Slotemaker grabbed the important rebounds.

District 7-B The DeSales boys are going to the State B Tournament for the first time in 44 years and won't mind if anyone considers them a long shot, not after draining 12 of 20 3-pointers in Saturday night's 72-56 victory over Blue Mountain rival Waitsburg in a District 9-B elimination game at Friel Court. "After yesterday's victory (over Garfield-Palouse), the guys weren't going to be denied," Irish coach Joe Lesko said.

WSU's Kojo Mensah-Bonsu fouls UCLA hero Kris Johnson during the first half of the Cougars' loss Thursday night. Johnson later scored the game-winning shot. Photo by Shawn Jacobson/The Spokesman-Review

By focusing on his responsibilities, WSU basketball star Carlos Daniel has come close to his goals. Photo by Shawn Jacobson/The Spokesman-Review