After opening up a 16-point lead against Oklahoma State in the second half, the Cowboys fought their way back into the game, closing the lead to seven with about two minutes left. But in the end, Pitt held on for a 74-68 win for their ninth win on the season.
Oklahoma State’s star freshman, Le’Bryan Nash, was a big reason the Cowboys were able to make it a game. He had 14 of his 20 points in the second half. Nash again game off the bench, but appeared to be the team’s best player as he hit nine of his 20 attempts from the field.
Pitt dominated on the glass again, outrebounding Oklahoma State 37 to 23. The Cowboys had only a meager nine boards at the half.
The Panthers were led by a trio of Ashton Gibbs, Nasir Robinson, and Lamar Patterson. The three also took care of the ball and had only one turnover in the game. Patterson had his best game of the year, nearly recording a triple double with 12 points, ten rebounds, and seven assists.
Pitt had a decent contribution from its bench, led by Dante Taylor with eight points and seven rebounds to go along with four blocks.
This game wrapped up the toughest stretch out of conference the Panthers have had this season. After winning the City Game against Duquesne, a road game against Tennessee, and this one in Madison Square Garden against the Cowboys, the Panthers escaped unscathed. The early-season loss against Long Beach State and close wins against Rider and La Salle are looking further and further back in Pitt’s rear view mirror. There’s a lot of season left and the Panthers have a way to go, but the team is definitely playing better since those early games.
For more on Pitt and the game, check out Cardiac Hill.