Pitt basketball’s offense takes over game against Oklahoma State, 74-68

The offensive play of the a new Panther trio – Ashton Gibbs, Lamar Patterson, and Nasir… The offensive play of the a new Panther trio – Ashton Gibbs, Lamar Patterson, and Nasir Robinson – led No. 14 Pitt over Oklahoma State, 74-68, Saturday afternoon in Madison Square Garden.

Gibbs, who played in 39 minutes of the contest, had a game high 17 points. He showed a strong presence at the basket and earned a total of eight free throws, sinking three off them at the end of the game to keep the

Panthers out of reach.

Patterson was a force down the stretch for Pittsburgh, scoring seven points and nabbing six defensive boards in the second half. He was able to manage seven assists throughout the game in Pitt’s quick passing offense. Patterson also took the final rebound as time expired to seal a Pitt victory.

Robinson’s hot hand continued on his way to a 15-point performance Saturday. He has been most valuable on the glass as a player who gives the Panthers second chances. Both Robinson and Dante Taylor – who came off the bench – combined to grab seven offensive rebounds.

The trend of dominating the rebounding department continued Saturday, as the Panthers got to the ball early, controlling seven offensive rebounds in the first half compared to Oklahoma St.’s six defensive. Overall, Pitt had 37 total rebounds to the Cowboys’ 23.

Despite that, Oklahoma State’s star freshman Le’Bryan Nash kept the Cowboys in the game. Coming off the bench, Nash had 20 points – with 14 of those coming in the second half. He has taken over the role of the Cowboys’ primary shooter, nailing 9-20 from the field – which is twice the amount of attempts by any

other player.

Pittsburgh will come back home to face South Carolina State next Saturday, while Oklahoma State will host New Mexico.