Marcus Smart returns, helping Oklahoma State end losing streak with win over Texas Tech

Stillwater, OK - Marcus Smart returned to the hardwood after a three-game suspension and turned in a double-double for Oklahoma State as the Cowboys defeated the Texas Tech Red Raiders, 84-62, in Big 12 Conference action at Gallagher-Iba Arena.

Smart produced 16 points, 10 assists and six steals for the Cowboys (17-10, 5-9 Big 12) as they brought an end to a seven-game slide. Le'Bryan Nash led the offense with 21 points, followed by Phil Forte with 20, while fellow starters Markel Brown and Kamari Murphy produced 11 and 10 points, respectively, as well as six rebounds apiece.

The Red Raiders (13-14, 5-9) were led by Jordan Tolbert and his double-double consisting of 15 points and 10 rebounds, followed by Robert Turner with 10 points as the team bowed for the third time in as many games.

The game started out close, but then OSU put together a 12-2 run in order to gain some momentum heading into the break with a 34-25 advantage. The Cowboys connected on all but one of 12 free throws in the opening frame, while the visitors missed all six chances beyond the arc.

In the second half the hosts left no doubt as they knocked down 65.5 percent from the field, including 4-of-7 on the perimeter, en route to the lopsided win.

Oklahoma State outscored the Red Raiders at the free-throw line, 19-9, and also forced 15 turnovers on the afternoon.