The Utah Utes will host the Oklahoma State Cowboys in their first-ever Big 12 Conference matchup. Utah is looking to break a four-game losing streak, while Oklahoma State enters the game on a high note after defeating Kansas State. Key factors for Utah include Gabe Madsen's three-point shooting and limiting turnovers against Oklahoma State's aggressive defense.
The Utah Utes will look to snap a four-game losing streak when they host the Oklahoma State Cowboys at the Jon M. Huntsman Center on Saturday evening., while the Cowboys enter the matchup on a high note after defeating Kansas State 79-66. This game marks the first-ever Big 12 Conference meeting between Utah and Oklahoma State and the first time the Cowboys have traveled to Salt Lake City since December 12, 1980.
Utah’s Gabe Madsen rediscovered his scoring touch in the Iowa State loss, contributing 20 points after being held to single digits in his previous four games. The fifth-year player could be a critical factor against an Oklahoma State defense that struggles to defend the three-point line, allowing opponents to shoot 35% from beyond the arc—the third-worst mark in the Big 12. Madsen, Utah’s single-season record holder for three-pointers made , has already made 45 this year, leading the conference.
For Oklahoma State, Abou Ousmane and Marchelus Avery are the players to watch. Ousmane, a 6’10” forward and Xavier transfer, leads the Cowboys with 12.9 points per game and is a physical presence in the paint. Avery, a UCF transfer, adds 12.6 points per game off the bench and poses a versatile scoring threat from all three levels. Both players are also strong rebounders, with Ousmane averaging 5.8 rebounds per game and Avery close behind with 5.3.
To secure a win, Utah must capitalize on their opportunities from beyond the arc, as Oklahoma State’s defense has shown vulnerability against three-point shooting. This could be a breakout game for both Gabe and his brother Mason Madsen. Additionally, the Utes must protect the ball, as turnovers have plagued them recently.
A win would not only end Utah’s four-game skid but also mark their first Big 12 Conference victory. Solid three-point shooting, limiting turnovers, and containing Ousmane and Avery will be crucial for the Utes to find success.
COLLEGE BASKETBALL BIG 12 CONFERENCE UTAH UTES OKLAHOMA STATE COWBOYS GABE MADSEN
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Utah Utes vs Iowa State CyclonesPreview of the upcoming basketball game between the Utah Utes and the Iowa State Cyclones.
Read more »
Utah Utes Face Tough Test Against Iowa State CyclonesThe Utah Utes are looking to end their losing streak against a formidable Iowa State Cyclones team. Utah has struggled offensively in their first two Big 12 games, while Iowa State boasts a high-scoring offense and a strong defense. For Utah to pull off the upset, they will need to minimize turnovers, capitalize on their outside shooting, and try to get Iowa State's key players into foul trouble.
Read more »
Mountain West basketball preview: Boise State, Nevada, San Diego State, Utah State atop the packMWC could receive just two NCAA tournament bids this season
Read more »
Oklahoma State Cowboys take on the No. 13 Oklahoma SoonersThe Oklahoma State Cowboys take on the No. 13 Oklahoma Sooners at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Saturday's matchup is the first this season between the squads. Oklahoma State is 3-0 at home, and Oklahoma is 0-0 on the road.
Read more »
Game Preview: Oklahoma State Looking to Upset No. 13 Oklahoma in BedlamThe Cowboys have a chance to get a signature win in nonconference play.
Read more »
Oklahoma State Can't Hang With No. 13 Oklahoma in BedlamThe Cowboys never got into a rhythm in their worst game of the season.
Read more »