Despite 91-79 win, Lutz emphasizes vitality behind defensive improvement

OSU coach notes the importance of improving defensively with Big 12 play looming

Daniel Allen

Dec 19, 2025 - 4 min read

Oklahoma State guard Vyctorius Miller (5) elevates for a dunk attempt during the Cowboys' 91-79 victory over UMKC Thursday night at Gallagher-Iba Arena. The Cowboys improved to 10-1 on the season despite defensive struggles that prompted a heated timeout from head coach Steve Lutz. – Photo Courtesy OSU Athletics

Despite 91-79 win, Lutz emphasizes vitality behind defensive improvement — Oklahoma State guard Vyctorius Miller (5) elevates for a dunk attempt during the Cowboys' 91-79 victory over UMKC Thursday night at Gallagher-Iba Arena. The Cowboys improved to 10-1 on the season despite defensive struggles that prompted a heated timeout from head coach Steve Lutz. – Photo Courtesy OSU Athletics

Steve Lutz didn’t mince words.

During his weekly availability, the Oklahoma State coach demanded defensive improvement, emphasizing the need to hone in on “the fundamentals.” That didn’t change Thursday, despite a 91-79 against UMKC at Gallagher-Iba Arena. And postgame, Lutz reverted back to old talking points.

“We’ve just got to get a lot better defensively,” Lutz said. “That’s got to be important to us. We just can’t be so darn casual.”

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