The Oklahoma State Cowboys are gearing up for a pivotal preseason exhibition that will pit them against the Wisconsin Badgers on October 27, 2026. The matchup serves as a crucial warm‑up as the Cowboys fine‑tune a roster that has undergone significant change since last season.
Wisconsin arrives in the contest with a strong pedigree, having logged three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and a history of 25 tournament trips since 1999. The Badgers will be led by returning big man Nolan Winter, who posted 13.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game last year, and sharpshooter Austin Rapp, who contributed 9.7 points while shooting 36 percent from three‑point range.
Key Players to Watch
Winter’s size and rebounding prowess, Rapp’s perimeter shooting, Elmer’s three‑point accuracy and Autry’s clutch performances will be under the microscope as the two programs test their early chemistry.
Adding depth to the Wisconsin lineup are newcomers Eian Elmer and Trey Autry. Elmer, who averaged 12.7 points at Miami (OH) while hitting 43 percent from beyond the arc, brings a proven scoring threat, while Autry, a 11‑point per game performer at George Washington with a 39 percent three‑point clip, bolsters the backcourt.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma State’s portal class has been ranked 25th nationally by 247Sports and 14th by On3, indicating a recruiting boost that could offset the team’s turnover. The Cowboys also demonstrated their potential in a 97‑95 victory over Auburn in last year’s preseason exhibition, where three players cracked the 20‑point mark.
The upcoming game against Wisconsin is more than a warm‑up; it is a chance for the Cowboys to generate buzz among fans still reeling from a turbulent offseason. With a nonconference slate that includes contests against Incarnate Word, Texas A&M, Virginia Tech and others, the Badgers matchup stands out as a marquee event that could set the tone for the regular season.