Tad Boyle has a knack for guiding the Colorado men's basketball team through the ups and downs of conference tournaments. Over the years, his squads have consistently managed to win at least one game in these high-stakes settings, with only one exception. This year, the Buffs aim to continue that trend as they face off against Oklahoma State in the opening round of the 2026 Big 12 Conference tournament.
Reflecting on their past performances, the Buffs have shown resilience, even when entering the tournament as underdogs. Last season, despite finishing at the bottom of the league, they pulled off two wins before bowing out to Houston in the quarterfinals.
This ability to rise to the occasion is something CU forward Bangot Dak emphasizes. "It's about leaving a lasting impression," Dak says.
"Whether or not you make it to March Madness, you want to represent your conference with pride."
Colorado, the 11th seed, previously bested 14th-seeded Oklahoma State 83-69 on their home court. During that game, OSU's Parsa Fallah, a key player, put up 14 points but was sidelined for the season with an ACL injury shortly after.
Despite some late-season struggles, the Cowboys showed their offensive prowess with a high-scoring victory at UCF and a competitive matchup against No. 7 Houston.
Oklahoma State has been an offensive force, ranking fourth in the Big 12 for points per game. However, their shooting efficiency tells a different story, placing them near the bottom in field goal percentage. Defensively, the Cowboys have had their challenges, ranking low in several key metrics.
Boyle knows the importance of mindset in these do-or-die games. "First-round games are often about who wants it more," he says. "Oklahoma State is coming in strong, but it's up to us to be mentally and physically prepared to seize the moment."
As the Buffs prepare for their showdown in Kansas City, they'll rely on key players like Isaiah Johnson, who leads the team in scoring, and Barrington Hargress, who provides a strong presence from beyond the arc. They'll need to capitalize on their strengths and maintain their focus if they hope to advance and face sixth-seeded TCU in the next round.
The stage is set for an exciting clash, with both teams eager to extend their seasons. The Buffs are ready to make their mark, driven by a blend of experience and youthful energy. Tuesday night's game promises to be a thrilling chapter in their ongoing quest for tournament success.