Oklahoma State Coach Steve Lutz Reflects on Shocking Victory Over BYU
In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, Oklahoma State University achieved a significant victory against No. 16 BYU on February 4, 2026. Led by head coach Steve Lutz, the Cowboys triumphed with a score of 99-92, marking Lutz’s first notable win at the institution. This victory created an electric atmosphere at Gallagher-Iba Arena, prompting a celebratory court storming.
Steve Lutz’s Reaction to the Win
Coach Steve Lutz expressed his pride in the team following the game. He remarked, “It was a heck of a night. We secured our first Quad 1 win against a potentially national title contender.” He emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating that the players performed collectively rather than as individuals, which has contributed to their recent success.
The Path to Victory
The Cowboys demonstrated impressive gameplay, especially in the second half. They scored 58 points after halftime, averaging 1.57 points per possession. Despite leading by as many as 15 points early on, BYU managed to tie the game before Oklahoma State pulled ahead.
Key Player Performances
- AJ Dybantsa (BYU): Scored a game-high 36 points, shooting 13-of-20 from the field, along with 5 three-pointers, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists.
- Team Stats: BYU’s performance relied heavily on a trio of players, with Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright III contributing to 71 of their 92 points.
Character on Display
What stood out to Lutz was Dybantsa’s sportsmanship. He recounted an incident after the game where Dybantsa ensured a teammate shook his hand, which Lutz found to be a testament to Dybantsa’s character and maturity.
Season Outlook for Oklahoma State
This victory brought Oklahoma State’s overall record to 16-6, including a 4-5 standing in the Big 12 conference. Despite their recent win, they remain outside the NCAA Tournament conversation. However, Lutz identified this win as a crucial stepping stone.
Future Opportunities
Lutz highlighted upcoming critical Quad 1 opportunities, stating, “We have four left after tonight, including notable games against Houston and Kansas.” He acknowledged the importance of these matchups for their postseason aspirations.
As Oklahoma State seeks to continue its upward trajectory, Lutz emphasized their commitment to competing at a high level and advancing to the NCAA Tournament, a goal he was brought in to achieve.
| Stat Category | Oklahoma State | BYU |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 99 | 92 |
| Leading Scorer | Not specified | AJ Dybantsa (36 points) |
| Rebounds | Not specified | AJ Dybantsa (7 rebounds) |
| 3-Pointers Made | Not specified | AJ Dybantsa (5) |
The Cowboy community remains optimistic about their trajectory as they strive to convert this victory into a successful season. They aim to solidify their position within the NCAA Tournament bracket as they face further challenges ahead.