In a thrilling Iowa State basketball matchup, the No. 3 Cyclones faced off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys on January 10, 2026, at Hilton Coliseum in Ames. This game was highly anticipated, given the historic rivalry between the two teams, who have faced off 142 times, with the Cowboys holding a 73-68 all-time advantage.
The game started with a strong defensive performance by the Cowboys, who quickly built a 12-4 lead. This early dominance set the tone for the first half, as the Cyclones struggled to find their rhythm, making just one field goal in the first five minutes. Oklahoma State's impressive start was bolstered by 12 points from Ousmane Diouf, which helped them secure a 40-26 halftime lead.
The second half saw the Cyclones make a valiant effort to close the gap. They trimmed the Cowboys' lead to just 5 points, making it 44-39. However, a crucial off-balance, contested shot by Brandon Newman in the lane helped Oklahoma State regain control and eventually seal the victory. The Cowboys' defense was a key factor throughout the game, as they consistently disrupted Iowa State's offense and maintained their lead.
The final score was 74-68 in favor of Oklahoma State, marking a significant upset over the highly ranked Cyclones. This loss is a notable setback for Iowa State, who were aiming to continue their strong season. The game showcased the intense rivalry and competitive nature of Big 12 men's basketball, making it a memorable matchup for fans of both teams.
For those who missed the live action, the game was available to watch on ESPN, with live updates and highlights provided throughout. The game's intensity and key moments were captured in real-time, offering fans an immersive viewing experience.
Looking ahead, both teams will be looking to bounce back from this game and continue their pursuit of conference success. The Iowa State Cyclones will be aiming to regroup and maintain their position as one of the top teams in the Big 12, while the Oklahoma State Cowboys will seek to build on their impressive victory and solidify their standing in the conference.
