Seattle didn’t have much margin for error on February 5, 2026 — and it didn’t need any. The Redhawks escaped with an 83-81 win over Pepperdine, a result that was closer than the records suggested and one that tested Seattle’s ability to close.

Final: Seattle 83, Pepperdine 81

Seattle entered the night at 14-9 and looking to stabilize after a mixed five-game stretch (LLWLW). Pepperdine arrived at 6-17 with similar recent turbulence (LLLWL), but the Waves made the game uncomfortable throughout and had Seattle playing a possession game late.

How the game turned

With no overtime required, the story was simple: Seattle did just enough in the final possessions to preserve a two-point lead. In a game that finished 83-81, every empty trip mattered, and Seattle’s ability to get to the finish line was the separator.

What it means going forward

For Seattle, the win is the kind that keeps a season on track — not pretty, but necessary. At 14-9, the Redhawks banked a result they couldn’t afford to let slip, especially at home.

For Pepperdine, the loss is another tight one in a difficult season. The Waves dropped to 6-17, but the performance suggested they can still pressure opponents into late-game execution, even when the matchup looks lopsided on paper.

Up next

Seattle leaves with the win and momentum in the standings, while Pepperdine is left to turn a competitive effort into a finished result.