Freshman Le'Bryan Nash Impresses In Exhibition Opener

Grant Belcher, News9.com

STILLWATER, Oklahoma – Oklahoma State might have a little bit of trouble determining its starting lineup this year.

But in this case, that's a good thing.

OSU showcased its depth and balance in a 105-56 exhibition win against Panhandle State on Wednesday at Gallagher-Iba Arena.

The Aggies led very early in the game but never posed any sort of a problem for the Cowboys, who forced 33 turnovers and held Panhandle State to 35 percent shooting.

But the big story for the Cowboys was all the new faces and their impressive play.

Freshman phenom Le'Bryan Nash certainly didn't disappoint, putting up 26 points and 11 rebounds in a short 22 minutes of playing time.

He shot 10-of-11 from the free throw line and added three steals and a pair of assists.

Six Oklahoma State players who were not on the active roster last year made their unofficial debuts.

Freshman guard Cezar Guerrero, who suffered a neck injury in a preseason practice, came back and helped run the offense with five points and two assists.

Forward Michael Cobbins put up nine points and four boards, and guard Brian Williams had 12 points.

Big men Philip Jurick and Marek Soucek contributed but played sparingly.

Oklahoma State dominated the smaller, less physical Aggies, who don't have a player on their roster taller than 6-5.

OSU outscored Panhandle State 58-18 in the paint and forced the Aggies to foul on many occasions under the basket (Panhandle State doubled OSU's foul total at 26 to 13).

The Cowboys also scored 41 points off of Panhandle State's 33 turnovers.

OSU will get another chance to showcase its new freshman during the final exhibition game of the year on Sunday against Oklahoma Baptist. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. at Gallagher-Iba Arena.