Utah Utes vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys Men's Basketball: How to Watch, Tip-Off, and TV

The Runnin' Utes head to Stillwater for the first time in 72 years
Rob Gray-Imagn Images
In this story:

The Utah Utes (12-8, 4-5 Big 12) head to Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Saturday to take on the Oklahoma State Cowboys (10-10, 2-7 Big 12) at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. ET as Utah aims to complete an in-season sweep of the Cowboys following their home victory earlier in the season.

Saturday, February 1
Utah vs. Oklahoma State
Tip-Off: 3 p.m. ET
TV/Streaming: ESPN+

Utah’s Road Challenge

The Utes enter the game with momentum, having won four of their last six matchups. During this stretch, forward Ezra Ausar has emerged as a key player, averaging 14.3 points and 4.8 rebounds while shooting an impressive 59.3% from the floor. Gabe Madsen has also provided consistent scoring, averaging 10.8 points per game and leading the team with 19 assists in that span.

Despite their recent success, Utah has faced one of the toughest schedules in the country, ranked as the 23rd-most difficult nationally and fourth-hardest in the Big 12. A victory on Saturday would bring the Utes back to .500 in conference play, a significant milestone as they continue their transition into the Big 12.

Oklahoma State’s Home Advantage

The Cowboys, despite their struggles in Big 12 play, have been solid at home, boasting a 7-2 record in Stillwater. However, they are coming off a lopsided 85-57 loss to Kansas State, where Marchelus Avery led the team with 22 points. Avery and Bryce Thompson, who has averaged 12.6 points over the last 10 games, will be key for Oklahoma State as they try to snap their recent slump.

Defensively, Oklahoma State has struggled, allowing 74.9 points per game. The Cowboys will need to tighten up on that end to slow down Utah’s offense, which is averaging 76.5 points per game and shooting 46.2% from the field.

Kyle Whittingham and Utah projected to win Big 12 with CFB Playoff bid in 2025

Historical Significance

Saturday marks Utah’s first trip to Stillwater since December 18, 1953, making this matchup a rare occasion in program history. The Utes are also looking for their first in-season sweep of a Big 12 opponent, a milestone that would be significant in their debut conference campaign. They beat OSU 83-62 in Salt Lake City last month.

Utah Athletics took on budget deficit before joining Big 12, per report

With both teams looking to improve their standing, this matchup presents a crucial test for the Utes as they push toward postseason contention.


Published
Kenny Lee
KENNY LEE

Kenny Lee is a college sports writer for On SI. The Maryland native who began his career in media as a sportswriter at Tuskegee University, covering SIAC sports working for the athletic department in Alabama. He previously worked for NASCAR in content distribution and has been featured on ESPN and FOX Sports. Lee is also an aviation enthusiast who spends time plane-spotting and participates in the flight simulation community.