Cowboys Prepare for Tough Second-Round NIT Matchup Against Wichita State

Oklahoma State looks to advance to the elite eight of the NIT but faces a formidable opponent in the Shockers

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:52pm

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The Oklahoma State Cowboys are preparing for their second-round matchup of the NIT against Wichita State on Sunday night. The Pokes are hoping to keep their season alive and reach the elite eight of the tournament, but they'll have to overcome a talented Shockers team led by senior guard Kenyon Giles. With three key players still suspended, OSU will need contributions from its reserves to pull off the victory.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to build on their success from last year's NIT tournament, where they advanced to the elite eight. A win over Wichita State would keep their postseason hopes alive and provide momentum heading into next season. However, the Shockers present a significant challenge, especially with OSU's roster limitations due to the suspensions.

The details

Oklahoma State enters the game as the favorite, but they'll need to limit Wichita State's second-chance points and get production from their reserves to secure the victory. The Shockers are third in the nation in offensive rebounds per game, which could pose problems for the short-handed Cowboy squad. Freshman center Benjamin Ahmed and guard Ryan Crotty will be expected to step up in the absence of the suspended players. Containing Wichita State's leading scorer, Kenyon Giles, will also be crucial for the Cowboys' defense.

  • The second-round NIT matchup between Oklahoma State and Wichita State will take place on Sunday night.

The players

Kenyon Giles

The senior guard is the heart of the Wichita State Shockers' offense and one of the best scorers in the nation, averaging 19.1 points per game.

Benjamin Ahmed

The freshman center for Oklahoma State started the last game and had 16 points on 60% shooting. He will likely be a big part of the Cowboys' game plan again.

Ryan Crotty

The freshman guard for Oklahoma State got the start in the last game but struggled, shooting 0-4 from the field. The Cowboys will need Crotty to find his rhythm in this matchup.

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What’s next

The winner of the Oklahoma State-Wichita State matchup will advance to the elite eight of the NIT tournament.

The takeaway

Oklahoma State must play its best basketball to overcome the challenges presented by Wichita State and the absence of several key players. The Cowboys' reserves will need to step up, and the team will have to find a way to limit the Shockers' second-chance opportunities if they want to keep their season alive.