Stillwater, October 23, 2025
The Oklahoma State Cowboys men’s basketball team kicked off its preseason practice at Gallagher-Iba Arena with renewed energy and a revamped roster. Under head coach Mike Boynton, the team focuses on intense drills, emphasizing pace and defense to aim for a top-25 NCAA ranking. With seven new scholarship players, including key transfers, the Cowboys are looking to improve on last season’s 21-14 record and prepare for significant facility upgrades. Upcoming exhibition games will test the team’s chemistry and strategies for a competitive season.
Stillwater, Oklahoma – Oklahoma State Cowboys Launch Preseason Basketball Practice with Renewed Focus
The Oklahoma State University men’s basketball team kicked off its preseason practice on October 22, 2025, at Gallagher-Iba Arena, displaying high energy and showcasing a revamped roster designed to elevate their performance this season. Under head coach Mike Boynton, the Cowboys opened with intense drills emphasizing pace and defense, signaling strong ambitions to break into the NCAA top 25 following a solid previous year. This marks a pivotal start as the team integrates seven new scholarship players, including key transfers and freshmen, amid significant facility upgrades that promise to boost their competitive edge.
Key Roster Additions and Returning Talent
The practice highlighted several newcomers poised to make an immediate impact. Among them, Aaron Wiggins, a point guard returning after gaining NBA experience, brings veteran leadership and playmaking skills to the backcourt. Joining him is Kalib Fortuné, a sharpshooter transfer who adds depth to the perimeter game with his reliable outside shooting. These additions address previous weaknesses in scoring and versatility, creating a more balanced lineup.
Sophomore big man Thomas Yoshioka stood out during early sessions with his dominant rebounding, providing a glimpse of the team’s interior strength. Another focal point is Wagnaal Ba, the 7-foot center whose presence will anchor the inside-out play strategy that Boynton plans to employ. This approach aims to combine strong post play with quick transitions, fostering a dynamic offense capable of exploiting defensive mismatches.
With seven new scholarship players overall, the roster overhaul reflects a deliberate effort to blend youth and experience. The team comes off a 21-14 finish last season, which included a run to the NIT quarterfinals, building momentum and fan confidence heading into the new campaign.
Facility Upgrades Enhance Preparation
The preseason launch coincided with the unveiling of renovated facilities at Gallagher-Iba Arena, including an upgraded weight room funded by recent booster contributions. Athletic director Chad Weiberg toured the improvements, which are expected to elevate OSU’s appeal in recruiting top talent. These enhancements provide state-of-the-art resources for strength training and recovery, allowing the Cowboys to maintain peak physical condition throughout the grueling schedule.
During the session, the team engaged in a rigorous scrimmage that tested their cohesion under pressure. The focus on defensive fundamentals and fast-paced execution underscored Boynton’s vision for a resilient unit ready to compete at a high level.
Upcoming Schedule and Broader Context
Looking ahead, the Cowboys are gearing up for an exhibition game against Southwestern Oklahoma State on November 4, 2025, which will serve as a final tune-up before the regular season. This matchup offers an early opportunity to refine strategies and assess the new roster’s chemistry.
In Oklahoma City, fans are expressing optimism, buoyed by last season’s achievements and the promise of this refreshed squad. The timing of the preseason is especially crucial with SEC realignment on the horizon for next year, which could introduce tougher competition and higher stakes for the program.
Strategic Emphasis on Resurgence
Boynton’s coaching philosophy centers on leveraging the team’s height and speed to control game tempo. By prioritizing inside-out play, the Cowboys aim to create scoring opportunities from the paint while transitioning swiftly to capitalize on turnovers. Yoshioka’s rebounding and Ba’s rim protection form the defensive core, while Wiggins and Fortuné handle ball distribution and long-range threats.
The integration of transfers like Fortuné addresses past inconsistencies in perimeter shooting, potentially unlocking more offensive options. As the team adapts to these changes, the preseason practices will be instrumental in building trust and rhythm among players.
The renovated Gallagher-Iba Arena not only improves training logistics but also symbolizes OSU’s commitment to basketball excellence. With booster support driving these developments, the program is positioned to attract and retain elite athletes, fostering long-term success.
As the Cowboys push through this preparatory phase, their performance in upcoming scrimmages will provide further insight into their top-25 potential. The blend of returning grit and new talent sets a promising tone for a season that could redefine Cowboy basketball in Stillwater and across the region.
The enthusiasm from the October 22 practice reflects a program eager to build on its NIT success and navigate the challenges of an evolving conference landscape. With focused drills and facility advantages, Oklahoma State appears primed for a competitive resurgence.
FAQ
What date did the Oklahoma State University men’s basketball team start preseason practice?
October 22, 2025.
Where was the preseason practice held?
Gallagher-Iba Arena.
Who are the key new players mentioned for the team?
Aaron Wiggins, a point guard returning from NBA experience; Kalib Fortuné, a sharpshooter transfer; Thomas Yoshioka, a sophomore big man; and Wagnaal Ba, a 7-foot center.
What was the team’s record last season?
21-14, including a run to the NIT quarterfinals.
What facility improvements were highlighted?
An upgraded weight room funded by recent boosters.
When is the exhibition game scheduled?
November 4, 2025, against Southwestern Oklahoma State.
What is the coaching strategy for the season?
Emphasis on inside-out play, leveraging height and quick transitions.
What broader change is upcoming for the program?
SEC realignment next year.
Key Features of Oklahoma State Men’s Basketball Preseason
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Date | October 22, 2025 |
| Location | Gallagher-Iba Arena |
| Roster Changes | Seven new scholarship players, including transfers Aaron Wiggins and Kalib Fortuné |
| Standout Performers | Thomas Yoshioka (rebounding), Wagnaal Ba (center) |
| Previous Season | 21-14 record, NIT quarterfinals |
| Facility Upgrades | Upgraded weight room funded by boosters |
| Exhibition Game | November 4, 2025 vs. Southwestern Oklahoma State |
| Coaching Focus | Inside-out play, pace, and defense |
| Future Outlook | Aim for NCAA top 25, SEC realignment next year |
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