Oregon State Wraps Up Homestand with First-Ever Matchup vs. Sam Houston
Oregon State is set to close out its five-game homestand on Wednesday night with a first-time meeting against Sam Houston at Gill Coliseum. Tip-off is scheduled for the evening, and fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ or tune into the Beaver Sports Radio Network, where Mike Parker will be on the call.
This game wraps up a stretch that’s seen the Beavers play seven of their last eight at home - a schedule that’s clearly worked in their favor. Oregon State has won three straight for the second time this season, matching the hot start they opened the year with. And if recent trends are any indication, they’re finding a rhythm on both ends of the court.
Let’s start with the defense. The Beavers have been locking down the perimeter, holding six of their 11 opponents to under 30 percent shooting from beyond the arc.
That kind of consistency on the defensive end has been a major reason for their success at home, where they’ve gone 17-3 over their last 20 games. And in nonconference games at Gill Coliseum since the start of last season?
They’re a dominant 22-2.
Offensively, Oregon State continues to be one of the most reliable free-throw shooting teams in the country. They’re hitting at a 77.8 percent clip through the first 11 games of the season - right in line with a program that set a school record last year by shooting 78.6 percent from the stripe.
Over the last four games alone, the Beavers have gone 65-for-77 at the line, good for a scorching 84.4 percent. That’s not just efficient - it’s game-closing stuff.
Wayne Tinkle’s squad is coming off its third 20-win season in the last 35 years, and two of those have come under his leadership. The program is building something steady, and this year’s roster reflects that growth - not just in results, but in diversity.
Oregon State’s team includes 10 international players, representing nine different countries including the United States. That global blend has added a unique identity to the locker room and the court.
Looking ahead, the Beavers will hit the road for a tough test at Arizona State on Dec. 21 before diving deeper into the 2025-26 WCC slate. Due to the conference’s unbalanced schedule, Oregon State won’t travel to Gonzaga or Pepperdine this season, and they won’t host Saint Mary’s or Portland - quirks that could have postseason implications down the line.
But for now, all eyes are on Wednesday night. It’s a new opponent, a chance to extend a win streak, and an opportunity to close out the homestand on a high note. If the Beavers continue to shoot free throws like they have and keep locking down the perimeter, they’ll be a tough out for anyone - especially in Gill.