A New Era for the Cowgirls
The 2026‑27 women’s college basketball season is generating unprecedented buzz as Oklahoma State prepares to field a roster that blends experience with fresh talent. After a quiet offseason, the program announced a series of high‑profile additions that instantly elevate its title aspirations.
Among the newcomers are Audi Crooks, the nation’s second‑leading scorer, Liv McGill, an All‑SEC guard, and Ellie Brueggemann, a sharpshooter known for her three‑point accuracy. Their arrivals signal a strategic push to compete not only in the Big 12 but also on the national stage.
Rivalry Revived
The centerpiece of the schedule is a December 6 showdown against South Carolina, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs. The Cowgirls will travel to face a Gamecocks team that has captured three national titles since 2017 and finished as runner‑up in the past two seasons.
South Carolina’s lineup features returning All‑American forward Joyce Edwards, former SEC Tournament MVP Chloe Kitts, and guards Tessa Johnson and Agot Makeer, all of whom contributed to the team’s recent dominance. The Gamecocks also welcomed Texas transfer Jordan Lee and five‑star recruits Jerzy Robinson and Oliviyah Edwards, deepening a already formidable roster.
Beyond the marquee matchup, the schedule includes a series of challenging non‑conference games. The team will open in Paris, France, before heading to Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. Additional road trips include a neutral‑site contest at the Mohegan Sun Arena against UConn, a meeting with Duke in Durham, and a tournament appearance in Fort Myers, Florida.
The Cowgirls will also test themselves against familiar regional foes, hosting South Dakota State on November 15 and Oklahoma on December 12. A recent announcement saw guard Maddy McDaniel step away from the program to focus on her mental and emotional well‑being, a move that underscores the personal pressures that accompany high‑profile competition.
Overall, the blend of veteran leadership, impact transfers, and a demanding slate positions Oklahoma State as a dark‑horse contender. The upcoming clash with South Carolina serves as both a litmus test and a potential catalyst for a season that could redefine the program’s trajectory.