OSU's Fallah Back for Big 12 Showdown with UCF

Steve Lutz is no stranger to ultra-talented centers.

From aiding in the development of Justin Patton from his time as an assistant at Creighton, to eventual first-round selection Zach Edey, Lutz has earned a pedigree as an adept big-man developer. And rightfully so.

So, when Lutz, Oklahoma State’s second-year coach, commended the Cowboys' starting center Parsa Fallah, his praise held immense merit.

“He’s very mature, almost like an old soul in terms of a basketball player,” Lutz said. “He just kind of sticks to what’s good for him.”

Fallah, who transferred in from Oregon State last offseason, has quickly established himself as one of college basketball’s premier centers in his first season as a Cowboy. Through 14 games, OSU’s offense ranks second in points per contest, averaging roughly 91, and Fallah has played a prominent role in that offensive efficiency. He’s averaging 13.6 points per game in 12 appearances, a third-best total on OSU’s roster.

Oklahoma State center Parsa Fallah (22) handles the ball against Sam Houston defender Matt Dann (12) during the Cowboys' game Dec. 2, 2025 at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater, Oklahoma — Oklahoma State center Parsa Fallah (22) looks to make a move against Sam Houston defender Matt Dann (12) during the Cowboys' game Dec. 2, 2025 at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Fallah's floor presence and passing ability draw double-teams, creating scoring opportunities for OSU's high-powered offense that averages 91 points per game. – Photo by Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics

As the Cowboys hope to return to their winning ways when they host No. 25 UCF on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Gallagher-Iba Arena, they will need Fallah’s best. Saturday’s loss at 15th-ranked Texas Tech was merely a gauge. Tuesday will be a telltale sign of where Lutz’s group lies within the Big 12’s pecking order.

So, what makes Fallah so vital to OSU’s lineup?

“Parsa is among the good ones in that he doesn’t take very many days off,” Lutz said. “The other thing about Parsa is that he knows what he is. So, he doesn’t try to do things that he’s not capable of doing, most of the time. He’s great getting to that left shoulder. He’s great around the rim. He’s got really good footwork.”

But the Cowboys lacked his presence for two weeks.

Stillwater Building Center
Stillwater’s only locally owned hardware and lumber yard. From weekend DIY projects to contractor-grade materials, get expert advice from people who know your build.
📍 4521 S. Perkins Rd.

Visit the Building Center

After Fallah exacerbated a back injury in a Dec. 13 loss to Oklahoma, OSU’s offensive fluency dwindled. OSU’s ensuing two games came against Kansas City and Cal State Fullerton. Both ended in wins. Still, both were alarmingly close. And if anything, they highlighted Fallah’s vitality within the starting rotation.

So, while most players returned to their hometowns, Fallah remained in Stillwater.

Fallah said he worked tirelessly the following week to regain full strength. Countless hours of rehab Until eventually, he felt well enough to tell the coaching staff he was good to go, which Lutz said he welcomed seamlessly.

“My wife was not happy,” Fallah joked. “But I feel like because I stayed here, I really feel good now.”

Oklahoma State center Parsa Fallah (22) and teammates react from the bench during the Cowboys' game against Sam Houston Dec. 2, 2025 at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater, Oklahoma. — Oklahoma State center Parsa Fallah (22) and teammates celebrate from the bench during the Cowboys' game against Sam Houston Dec. 2, 2025 at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Fallah's presence has been crucial to OSU's offensive success this season, with the Cowboys ranking second nationally in scoring at 91 points per game heading into Big 12 play. – Photo by Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics

Fallah’s presence alone often draws double-teams. That’s where his passing skills, a facet of his game Lutz has called underrated, comes in. And OSU’s bevy of high-caliber scorers complements that well. Hence, the group’s efficient scoring numbers.

But when passing lanes are sparse, Fallah relies on either his left-shoulder turnaround jumper or spin move to the hoop for points. Both of which his teammates have commonly praised.

A message from Visit Stillwater

Ring in 2026 with excitement in America’s Friendliest College Town! From live music at the Tumbleweed and thrilling OSU Athletics, to livestock shows, new museum exhibits, and more. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

And not to mention, Fallah can shoot the 3-ball. He’s made two already this season in six attempts.

“I feel like he’s unguardable at times,” OSU point guard Kanye Clary said. “It’s insane some of the stuff he can do.”

As OSU gears up for a pivotal game in its Big 12 race, Lutz said he finds solace in knowing the 6-foot-5, 250-pound behemoth of a center he has in his arsenal.

UCF has no shortage of size down low, either. John Bol, the Knights' (12-1, 1-0 Big 12) 7-foot starting center, will be a viable test. But it’s a challenge Fallah will be up for.

Just ask Lutz.

“You guys know how I feel about Parsa,” Lutz said. “He’s a good player.

“He’s a very hard worker but most importantly he is a great player. And when he’s going, we usually are, too.”