Pokes Fate Uncertain After 82-68 Loss To Jayhawks

Most bracketologists said the Cowboys needed a win over the Jayhawks in the Big 12 quarterfinals to punch a ticket to the NCAA Tournament.    

OSU was the last team to beat Kansas three times in a season back in 1983 when Bill Self was on the squad.

However, this year was not the year, with the Jayhawks winning 82-68.

The third matchup between the Cowboys and Jayhawks was decided by two things.  Kansas came out with a much more aggressive mentality on both ends of the floor, and the Cowboys hit a scoring drought of almost 8 minutes in the second half that made the difference.

"We gave a little to them in fatigue, there's no question about that.  But we knew that was the case going into the deal.  They had a day extra rest, which they earned by winning the league.  Those things happen, we've got to learn from it. The next time we'll be better prepared," said OSU head Coach Mike Boynton. 

Malik Newman with a career-high 30 points paced the Jayhawks.  The Cowboys struggled from three-point range, making only 5 of 22 shots.  

Now, they'll have to wait until Sunday and the NCAA Tournament Selection Show to see if they're in.  Although in the locker room, they sound like a confident group based on what they've been able to do up to this point.