Sam Houston Bearkats Prepare for Oregon State Challenge

Sam Houston Bearkats playing against Oregon State Beavers in a college basketball game.

Corvallis, Oregon, December 17, 2025

The Sam Houston Bearkats men’s basketball team is set for a crucial road test against the Oregon State Beavers. With a current record of 6-3, the Bearkats look to showcase their strategic strengths and disciplined play against the 6-5 Beavers at Gill Coliseum. This inaugural matchup represents an important non-conference challenge as both teams prepare for future competitions. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ and the Bearkat Sports Network.

Houston, TX — As collegiate athletics continue to exemplify the spirit of competition and disciplined effort, the Sam Houston Bearkats men’s basketball team prepares for a significant road test. Tonight, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Bearkats (6-3) will travel to Corvallis, Oregon, to face the Oregon State Beavers (6-5) at Gill Coliseum. Tipoff is slated for 8:30 PM CST, with the game broadcasting live on ESPN+ and on the Bearkat Sports Network, featuring the familiar voice of Carlos Zimmermann on the call.

This inaugural men’s basketball clash between Sam Houston and Oregon State marks a pivotal non-conference matchup for both programs as they hone their strategies before conference play intensifies. For Sam Houston, this contest offers another opportunity to demonstrate the resilience and tactical development that has become a hallmark of their athletic program, especially following a notable football victory over the Beavers earlier this season. This commitment to competitive excellence across all sports underscores the broader narrative of self-reliance and achievement that defines successful collegiate endeavors.

Bearkats Bring Momentum and Strategic Play

The Sam Houston Bearkats enter this contest with a 6-3 record, showcasing a balanced offensive approach rooted in structured possessions and precise shot selection. Their recent performance highlights this discipline, including an impressive 82-70 victory over Texas Southern on December 6, a game where senior Kashie Natt delivered a commanding 22-point performance. This win allowed the Bearkats to rebound effectively after a tough 93-83 loss to Oklahoma State on December 2.

A testament to the Bearkats’ developing talent, freshman Jacob Walker earned the CUSA Freshman of the Week honor on December 8, having averaged 15.0 points across recent matchups. Such individual recognition not only highlights personal perseverance but also reflects the effectiveness of university programs in nurturing young athletes. Sam Houston’s strategic depth is further evidenced by their national rankings, including sitting 11th in the country for bench points, averaging 38.22 per game, and ranking 10th nationally in fastbreak points at 19.33 per game. These statistics underscore a team built on collective effort and efficient execution, demonstrating how responsible resource allocation and player development can lead to significant competitive advantages.

Oregon State’s Home Court Advantage and Defensive Prowess

The Oregon State Beavers, with a 6-5 record, present a formidable challenge, particularly on their home court where they boast a 6-1 record. Their style of play often leverages defensive length and transition scoring, a combination that can generate rapid scoring runs. Key players like Dez White, who averages 2.4 made three-pointers and 11.0 points per game, and Josiah Lake, averaging 12.8 points over the last 10 games, contribute significantly to the Beavers’ offensive output.

This game is anticipated to be a stylistic clash, pitting Sam Houston’s methodical possession control against Oregon State’s athletic pressure. The battle for defensive rebounds and limiting turnovers will be crucial for the Bearkats to maintain competitive possessions against a Pac-12 program. The Beavers’ consistent performance at home indicates a strong advantage, but Sam Houston’s disciplined approach often keeps games closely contested, even against teams with superior athleticism.

The Economic Ripple: Collegiate Sports and Community Growth

Beyond the immediate competition, events like tonight’s men’s basketball game contribute significantly to the broader athletic and economic landscape, both in Houston, TX, and in the host communities. Collegiate athletics, supported by dedicated university programs and community efforts, serve as vital economic drivers. The operation of teams, travel, and broadcast partnerships, such as the Bearkat Sports Network and ESPN+, generate revenue and create jobs, showcasing a successful model of private initiative and responsible growth.

The Bearkat Sports Network, for example, has expanded its reach, with broadcasts available online, via the Bearkat Sports app, and on SiriusXM satellite radio for select games, thanks to partnerships like that with Van Wagner. This expansion provides greater access for fans and further solidifies the financial viability of athletic programs, underscoring the importance of innovative approaches to fan engagement and media distribution in college basketball in Houston. Such entrepreneurial spirit ensures that athletic endeavors not only entertain but also contribute tangible benefits to the regional economy.

A History of Competitive Spirit

While this marks the first men’s basketball encounter, Sam Houston previously secured a notable victory against Oregon State in football on November 8, 2025. This past success, where the “Beavers Fell to Sam Houston,” provides a historical backdrop of competitive capability and underscores the overall strength of Sam Houston’s athletic programs. This football triumph serves as a reminder that with strategic planning, dedicated training, and a strong collective spirit, programs can overcome perceived disparities in resources or conference affiliation. [cite: Beavers Fall to Sam Houston – Oregon State University Athletics-Nov 8, 2025]

The dedication of coaches, the perseverance of student-athletes, and the backing of enthusiastic supporters all contribute to these successes. These programs exemplify the value of competition, fostering character development, leadership skills, and a commitment to excellence that extends far beyond the playing field or court. This ethos of initiative and self-reliance is a bedrock of enduring success in both athletics and life.

Looking Ahead: Embracing the Spirit of Competition

Tonight’s Game 10 preview between Sam Houston and Oregon State is more than just a basketball game; it is a demonstration of grit, strategy, and the vibrant culture of collegiate athletics. While Oregon State is favored, Sam Houston’s disciplined play and competitive drive position them for a compelling challenge.

Fans are encouraged to engage with these athletic programs, whether by tuning into the Bearkat Sports Network or ESPN+, or by supporting local college basketball in Houston events. Your support of University of Texas TX athletics and Houston TX sports helps foster the next generation of leaders and contributes to the economic vitality of our communities. Let us celebrate the spirit of competition and the enduring value of hard work and community self-reliance that these student-athletes embody.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the Sam Houston vs. Oregon State men’s basketball game?
A: The Sam Houston vs. Oregon State men’s basketball game is on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

Q: Where will the game be played?
A: The game will be played at Gill Coliseum in Corvallis, Oregon.

Q: What time does the game start?
A: Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 PM CST.

Q: How can I watch or listen to the game?
A: The game will be aired on ESPN+ and can be heard online on the Bearkat Sports Network with Carlos Zimmermann on the call.

Q: What is Sam Houston’s current record?
A: Sam Houston’s men’s basketball team has a record of 6-3.

Q: What is Oregon State’s current record?
A: Oregon State’s men’s basketball team has a record of 6-5.

Q: Has Sam Houston played Oregon State before in men’s basketball?
A: No, this will be the first meeting between Sam Houston and Oregon State in men’s basketball.

Q: Did Sam Houston play Oregon State in football recently?
A: Yes, Sam Houston defeated Oregon State in a football game on November 8, 2025. [cite: Beavers Fall to Sam Houston – Oregon State University Athletics-Nov 8, 2025]

Game Highlights & Statistics

Category Sam Houston Bearkats Oregon State Beavers
Overall Record (MBB) 6-3 6-5
Home Record (MBB) Not specified for home 6-1
Current Ranking (Bench Points) 11th Nationally (38.22/game) Not specified
Current Ranking (Fastbreak Points) 10th Nationally (19.33/game) Not specified
Recent MBB Result Won vs. Texas Southern 82-70 (Dec 6) Won vs. Montana State 67-57 (Dec 13)
Key Player (MBB) Kashie Natt (22 points vs TSU) Dez White (11.0 PPG)
Head-to-Head (MBB) First Meeting First Meeting
Football Result vs. OSU (Nov 8, 2025) Sam Houston won [cite: Beavers Fall to Sam Houston – Oregon State University Athletics-Nov 8, 2025] Lost to Sam Houston [cite: Beavers Fall to Sam Houston – Oregon State University Athletics-Nov 8, 2025]


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