Oklahoma State Fires Men's Basketball Coach Mike Boynton

Oklahoma State head coach Mike Boynton, Jr. talks to his players during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against UCF Tuesday, March 12, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Rie

Oklahoma State University made the decision to part ways with men's basketball coach Mike Boynton after seven seasons with the team. Boynton, who had a 119-109 record during his tenure, was relieved of his duties following a disappointing 12-20 season and an early exit from the Big 12 Tournament.

The university's athletic director, Chad Weiberg, expressed gratitude for Boynton's leadership and dedication to the student-athletes but acknowledged that the desired results had not been achieved. The decision to seek a new direction was made in the best interest of the program's future.

Challenges included NCAA sanctions and scoring struggles.

Boynton had a 119-109 record during his tenure.

Postseason ban in 2020 and denial of appeal in 2021.

Boynton's coaching career at Oklahoma State was marked by challenges, including dealing with the aftermath of an NCAA investigation that resulted in sanctions for the program. Despite his teams' defensive prowess, scoring struggles often hindered their performance on the court.

In 2020, the NCAA imposed a one-year postseason ban and other penalties on the Cowboys due to violations involving a former assistant coach accepting improper benefits. The team managed to participate in the 2021 NCAA Tournament, led by standout player Cade Cunningham, who went on to become the top pick in the NBA draft.

Heading into the 2021-22 season with high hopes, Oklahoma State faced disappointment when their appeal for the postseason ban was denied. Boynton criticized the NCAA's decision, expressing frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability in the process.

Despite a promising recruiting class, the Cowboys struggled to find consistency during the season, ending with a 15-15 record. The subsequent season saw a slight improvement with a 20-16 record, but the team's performance fell short of expectations.

While the team showed flashes of potential with notable wins, a late-season losing streak ultimately sealed Boynton's fate as the head coach. Oklahoma State will now begin the search for a new leader to guide the program forward.

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