The wider picture
Oklahoma State basketball is gearing up for its 44th postseason tournament bid, marking its 15th appearance in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). After a season filled with ups and downs, the Cowboys are looking to finish strong. They have accepted a bid to the NIT and will host the Davidson Wildcats on March 15, 2026, at Gallagher-Iba Arena, with the game scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. CT.
This season, Oklahoma State has had a mixed record, finishing with 19 wins and 14 losses. Their journey through the Big 12 Tournament ended in disappointment, as they lost a closely contested game to the TCU Horned Frogs, 95-88. Despite the setback, the Cowboys averaged an impressive 84.3 points per game throughout the season, showcasing their offensive capabilities.
In the recent loss to TCU, Oklahoma State demonstrated resilience, scoring 88 points, with notable contributions from players like Anthony Roy, who scored 10 points. Six players reached double figures in scoring, indicating a balanced offensive effort. However, head coach Steve Lutz pointed out the team’s struggles with rebounding, stating, “Ultimately, we shot ourselves in the foot in the inability to box out, be physical and get a rebound.” This reflection highlights the areas where the team needs to improve as they prepare for the NIT.
Coach Lutz also expressed a sense of pride in his team, emphasizing the importance of taking ownership of their performance. “We’ve got to be able to look in the mirror and take ownership of this, but also not lose sight of the fact that we’ve made strides and we’ve had a good year and we’re continuing to move the program forward,” he said. This sentiment resonates with the players, including Kanye Clary, who expressed his love for the team and the desire to continue competing together.
Oklahoma State enters the NIT as a No. 2 seed in its eight-team regional pod, a testament to their strong season despite the recent challenges. The Cowboys have a solid track record in NIT home games, boasting an 8-4 all-time record, which could provide them with a competitive edge as they face Davidson. The ticket price for the game is set at $25, making it accessible for fans eager to support their team.
As they prepare for the matchup against Davidson, the Cowboys are focused on building momentum and showcasing their offensive prowess. With a national ranking of 22 in points per game, they have the potential to make a significant impact in the tournament. Observers are keen to see how the team responds to the pressure of postseason play and whether they can capitalize on their strengths.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys aim to advance further in the NIT, and Coach Lutz is committed to guiding them through this journey. “If they want to continue on, I want to continue to coach them,” he stated, reinforcing his dedication to the team’s development and success. As Oklahoma State basketball embarks on this new chapter, fans are hopeful for a strong showing in the NIT and a chance to add to their storied legacy in postseason play.
