Oklahoma State’s thrilling 86-81 win over Northwestern at the Thanksgiving Classic not only keeps the Cowboys undefeated but positions them as one of college basketball’s early surprise stories—while Northwestern’s valiant fight highlights big questions for the Wildcats’ Big Ten ambitions.
The Oklahoma State Cowboys continued their red-hot start to the season, grinding out an 86-81 victory over the Northwestern Wildcats on Thanksgiving night in Chicago. With this result, Oklahoma State advances to 7-0, marking its best start since the 2019-20 campaign, and vaulting themselves into the national conversation as an early-season breakout team.
Inside the Numbers: Curry, Roy, and Miller Lead the Charge
This contest was a showcase for Jaylen Curry, who notched 18 points, sustaining his emergence as the Cowboys’ primary offensive engine. Still, it was Anthony Roy who propelled Oklahoma State down the stretch—scoring all 16 of his points in the frantic final eight-plus minutes to shift the game’s momentum.
Vyctorius Miller wasn’t far behind, tallying 17 points, while center Parsa Fallah put up a double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) to own the paint. Christian Coleman added 10 points, emphasizing the team’s offensive balance.
- Curry remains one of the Big 12’s most dynamic lead guards, fresh off a history-making performance last game when he became the first Cowboy to notch 30+ points and 10+ assists in a single game—as seen in their win over Nicholls.
- Roy’s three-point barrage in the second half—three from long range in a 16-4 run—cracked the Northwestern defense wide open.
- Miller and Fallah provided the versatility and interior presence that allowed Oklahoma State to survive the Wildcats’ late-game rally.
Northwestern’s Standouts and Hard-Luck Finish
For the Northwestern Wildcats (5-2), the loss is a stinging blow after a remarkable night from Nick Martinelli, whose 28 points (12-of-16 shooting) and 10 rebounds marked his first double-double of the season. Freshman Angelo Ciaravino scored 14 points—11 in the second half—and Arrinten Page added 11 points.
Northwestern found late hope when Ciaravino ripped off six straight points and Martinelli converted a three-point play, cutting the lead to just one with 34 seconds left. But Oklahoma State’s composure at the line—hitting all free throws in the final possessions—iced the contest.
The Turning Point: Big Shots and Clutch Free Throws
The pivotal moment came during Oklahoma State’s decisive 16-4 run late in the second half. Roy’s three consecutive triples, paired with Miller’s answering from deep, expanded the lead to eight with just over six minutes to play. Northwestern countered, but each time the Cowboys responded, highlighted by clutch free throws from Kanye Clary, Miller, and Isaiah Coleman.
- This finish underlines Oklahoma State’s poise—a trait not always seen in young, upstart teams still finding their identity.
- Northwestern’s inability to get key stops without fouling—despite home-court energy—shows defensive lapses that could haunt them as Big Ten play approaches.
Program Implications: Why This Win Matters
For Oklahoma State, starting 7-0 is more than a stat. It signals a potential return to relevance and the possibility of a postseason breakthrough that’s evaded the program in recent years. This group is becoming more than the sum of its parts, with multiple players proving they can take over late. The balanced scoring and late-game steadiness are hallmarks of teams that make noise in March.
For Northwestern, Martinelli’s breakout night can be a springboard, but falling just short exposes depth and defensive questions as conference season looms. The Wildcats will need to regroup quickly, with Wisconsin on deck as their Big Ten campaign begins.
Historic First Meeting Sets Up New Rivalry Potential
Notably, this was the first-ever matchup between Oklahoma State and Northwestern, and it lived up to the billing—a seesaw battle, elite individual performances, and a final-minute finish. The Thanksgiving Classic’s higher profile meant both fan bases saw their teams on a big stage to open the holiday slate.
What’s Next?
- Oklahoma State returns home to host Sam Houston on Tuesday, looking to continue their perfect run and climb further in national polls.
- Northwestern tips off Big Ten play at Wisconsin, aiming to prove they can execute under pressure and that Martinelli’s rise can trigger more consistent success.
Oklahoma State’s rise will be closely tracked by fans and analysts alike as they chase history. The ingredients—versatility, clutch shot-making, and newfound confidence—are in place. Now comes the challenge: sustaining this form as the schedule intensifies.
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