Can the Cowboys Bounce Back After a Close Encounter with the Knights?

The Oklahoma State Cowboys faced a challenging contest against the Knights, ending in a 77-71 defeat. The Cowboys now stand at an even record, while the Knights improved their tally. The game was held at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater, where 5,044 spectators witnessed an intense conference game that saw only one lead change and was tied once.

The first half showed promise for the home team as they led with 42 points against the Knights' 38. However, momentum shifted after halftime as Oklahoma State could only muster 29 additional points to UCF's 39. Despite shooting a higher two-point percentage (50 percent) and free throw percentage (80 percent), it wasn't enough to secure victory.

Oklahoma State's performance was marked by aggressive defense leading to eight steals and three blocks but also resulted in fouling out three players. Their offensive efforts were highlighted by scoring 32 points in the paint and converting opportunities into 21 points off turnovers. However, they struggled beyond the arc with just five three-pointers made from twenty attempts (25 percent).

On the other side of the court, UCF capitalized on their chances with six made three-pointers at a rate of 38 percent and maintained strong defensive pressure causing seventeen turnovers for Oklahoma State. They also excelled at second-chance points with seventeen compared to nine by Oklahoma State.

The Knights' ability to draw fouls proved advantageous as they made twenty-seven free throws from thirty-six attempts (75 percent). Their rebounding effort was superior too; grabbing forty rebounds including ten offensive ones which contributed significantly to their win.

Looking ahead for Oklahoma State Cowboys fans, attention turns toward an away game against Texas Longhorns scheduled on March 2nd at Moody Center in Austin. Fans can catch this matchup live on ESPN2 starting at noon Central Time.