Oklahoma State University finds itself navigating its first coaching search since 2017, an endeavor that offers valuable lessons from the experiences of some of its Big 12 counterparts.
This season concluded with a disappointing 12-20 record for the Cowboys, leading to the dismissal of Mike Boynton after a seven-year tenure. During Boynton’s time, the team made just one NCAA Tournament appearance, facing challenges in the competitive Big 12 conference.
Despite enduring three consecutive seasons with a losing record in the conference, the future holds promise for OSU with the right leadership. This optimism is fueled by the success stories emerging from within the Big 12, where recent coaching hires have made significant impacts.
One such example is Kansas State, soon to be OSU’s closest conference rival. Following a challenging 2022 season, Bruce Weber stepped down as head coach. In their search for a replacement, the Wildcats opted for an unconventional choice, selecting someone without prior head coaching experience.
Jerome Tang, who had spent the last five of his 19 years at Baylor as an associate head coach, took the reins at Kansas State without having been the primary decision-maker before. Yet, Tang quickly adapted to his new role, leading the Wildcats to an Elite Eight appearance as a 3-seed in his debut season. While they didn’t return to the tournament this year, Tang’s initial success positions Kansas State well for future competition.
Similarly, T.J. Otzelberger’s tenure at Iowa State has validated the Cyclones’ 2021 hiring decision. Following a dismal 2-20 season, including an 0-18 record in conference play, Iowa State embarked on a search that concluded with Otzelberger’s appointment. Despite mixed results during his time at UNLV, Otzelberger’s impact at Iowa State was immediate, transforming the team into NCAA Tournament contenders and, within three years, elevating them to national championship contention.
These examples demonstrate that unconventional choices can lead to remarkable turnarounds, a lesson OSU might consider in its own search. The evolving dynamics of college basketball, with the transfer portal and NIL opportunities, present both challenges and advantages in team building.
As OSU embarks on this critical decision-making process, it’s clear that limiting the search to only those with recent success in mid-major conferences might not capture the full potential of what’s possible. Engaging in the broader discussion and staying informed are key for those following the Cowboys’ journey.
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