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Cowboys Overcome 16-Point Deficit to Defeat TCU

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, March 24th 2026 at 23:59 GMT by Tulsa World
      Locale: UNITED STATES

FORT WORTH, TX - In a game brimming with second-half drama, the Oklahoma State Cowboys overcame a daunting 16-point deficit to defeat the TCU Horned Frogs 78-74 in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament on Wednesday. The victory propels the Cowboys into the quarterfinals, where they will face a tough test against Kansas State on Thursday.

The Cowboys, now 19-13 on the season, showcased remarkable resilience and a never-say-die attitude that bodes well for their tournament aspirations. While TCU (18-14) appeared to be in control for much of the second half, Oklahoma State's late surge demonstrated a level of composure and execution that suggests this team is peaking at the right time.

Steve Pomeroy led the scoring charge for Oklahoma State with 19 points, while Brandon Averett provided crucial support with 18. The contributions weren't limited to these two; freshman Avery Anderson stepped up with a vital 14 points, and Kalib Boone added a solid 10, highlighting the depth of the Cowboys' offensive capabilities. This balanced scoring attack proved to be key in dismantling the TCU lead.

TCU's Desmond Bane, despite playing for the losing side, was a standout performer, finishing with 22 points. Eddie Appling and Micah Peavy also chipped in with 14 and 13 points respectively, but their efforts weren't enough to withstand the Oklahoma State comeback. The Horned Frogs' offensive prowess was evident, but defensive lapses and an inability to close out the game ultimately cost them.

Turning the Tide: A Second-Half Masterclass in Resilience

The turning point of the game came in the latter stages of the second half. Down by 16, many observers might have expected Oklahoma State to falter. Instead, they systematically chipped away at the deficit, focusing on strong interior play and capitalizing on TCU turnovers. The Cowboys tied the game at 62 with 5:54 remaining, igniting a fervent energy that seemed to rattle the Horned Frogs.

Even after TCU briefly regained the lead at 68-64 with 3:32 to play, Oklahoma State responded with an 8-0 run, seizing a 72-68 advantage that they would not relinquish. This sequence underscored the Cowboys' ability to execute under pressure and their commitment to playing as a cohesive unit.

The final moments were nail-biting. Desmond Bane, a reliable shooter for TCU, had a chance to tie the game with a three-pointer with just 30 seconds on the clock, but his shot rimmed out, effectively sealing the Horned Frogs' fate. While luck plays a role, Oklahoma State's improved defensive pressure certainly contributed to the difficult shot.

Statistical Insights and Key Takeaways

Oklahoma State's shooting performance was impressive, connecting on 46% of their field goal attempts compared to TCU's 43%. However, the true difference-maker was rebounding. The Cowboys dominated the boards, out rebounding TCU 33-29. This provided them with extra possessions and second-chance opportunities that proved crucial in their comeback.

This victory isn't just about one game; it's a statement about Oklahoma State's potential. They've demonstrated the ability to overcome adversity, play as a team, and execute in crunch time. The upcoming quarterfinal matchup against Kansas State will be a stern test, but the Cowboys will enter the game with renewed confidence.

Looking Ahead: Quarterfinal Clash with Kansas State

Kansas State represents a significant challenge. They are a well-coached team with a strong offensive attack and a physical defense. For Oklahoma State to advance to the semifinals, they will need to maintain their rebounding intensity, continue to share the ball effectively, and contain Kansas State's key players.

The Big 12 Tournament is known for its unpredictability, and Oklahoma State's comeback victory over TCU serves as a prime example. If they can maintain this level of play, they could make a deep run and potentially challenge for the tournament title. Fans can expect a thrilling quarterfinal showdown on Thursday as the Cowboys look to continue their impressive tournament journey.