A new era of ambition
Oklahoma State’s women’s basketball program revealed its 2026‑27 non‑conference schedule, promising eight home games and four matchups against in‑state opponents. The slate is designed to build momentum after a 24‑10 campaign that culminated in the team’s first NCAA Tournament victory since 2021.
Head coach Jacie Hoyt, who guided the Cowgirls to that breakthrough season, emphasized the importance of early competition in shaping the roster’s chemistry. ‘We’re excited to test ourselves against quality opponents right from the start,’ Hoyt said.
The team will lean on two of the nation’s most coveted transfers. Audi Crooks, who starred at Iowa State, and Liv McGill, a Florida alumna, are expected to inject depth and scoring versatility into the lineup.
The season opens with an exhibition clash against Langston on October 27, followed by home contests versus Southern University (November 2), Morgan State (November 6) and Northwestern State (November 9). A short road swing takes the Cowgirls to Tulsa on November 12 before they travel to Brookings, South Dakota, for a first‑ever meeting with South Dakota State on November 15.
A highlight of the non‑conference portion is the historic showdown with South Carolina on December 6 in Columbia, South Carolina, marking the program’s inaugural meeting with the Gamecocks. The Cowgirls will also test themselves against Wichita State in Kansas City on November 22, a venue that holds personal significance for Coach Hoyt, who coached there from 2006‑09.
Thanksgiving week brings a tournament in Fort Myers, Florida, where the team will face three opponents from November 27‑29. Home games against Oral Roberts (December 1) and North Texas (December 14) follow before the season‑ending Bedlam series against Oklahoma in Oklahoma City on December 12.
The full Big 12 schedule, including tip times and television designations, will be released later, but the non‑conference slate already sets a tone of ambition and preparation for the conference grind.