The Oklahoma State Cowboys find themselves in a challenging situation as they strive for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Following a disappointing 13-point home defeat to Iowa State, which saw them trailing by 30 points at halftime, it”s evident that the team has not yet made the significant leap many anticipated after a promising start in nonconference play.
During the nonconference portion of the season, the Cowboys nearly broke into the top 25 and were regarded as one of the most improved teams in the nation. However, as Big 12 competition commenced, the expected growth has yet to materialize. To regain momentum and secure a place in the tournament, OSU must deliver exceptional performances over the next few weeks.
While the conference standings are based solely on wins and losses, the selection committee evaluates teams with a broader perspective. The loss to Iowa State does not just reflect negatively in the standings; it also highlights the significant halftime deficit, which could impact their tournament chances.
As the Cowboys navigate through this rough patch, they have ample opportunity to enhance their performance on both ends of the court. Competing at a high level is crucial, especially in the Big 12, where numerous opportunities to make headlines abound.
Another potential advantage for OSU is the classic narrative of teams “getting hot at the right time.” If the Cowboys can put their slow start behind them and achieve a winning streak that includes significant victories, they could rapidly re-enter the conversation for an NCAA Tournament berth.
Moreover, OSU still has the option to secure the conference”s automatic bid through a successful run in the Big 12 Tournament. Although winning the tournament may seem like a long shot, positioning themselves for a deep run could significantly enhance their standing within the 68-team field.
In summary, the Cowboys have substantial work ahead in the coming weeks. However, with focused effort and their best performances to date, the NCAA Tournament remains an attainable goal for Oklahoma State.
