Tulsa Overcomes Slow Start for Seventh Straight Win and Claims Sole Possession of American Conference Lead

Wednesday, February 4

Boca Raton, Fla.

6 p.m.

Tulsa

20-3,8-2American

Florida Atlantic

14-10,6-5American

Tulsa

Fla. Atlantic

David Green celebrates after a basket and foul at Florida Atlantic

Tulsa Overcomes Slow Start for Seventh Straight Win and Claims Sole Possession of American Conference Lead

2/4/2026 8:41:00 PM | Men's Basketball

Box Score

BOCA RATON, Fla. - After its lowest scoring first half of the season, Tulsa roared back with an early run in the second half and survived a late push from Florida Atlantic in a 78-76 win at Baldwin Arena on Wednesday. The Golden Hurricane was held to just 25 points on .303 percent shooting in the opening half but scored 53 in the second for the win.

Tulsa is now 20-3 overall and 8-2 in the American Conference and with Charlotte's loss to Wichita State, in sole possession of first place in the league with eight games remaining in the regular season.

David Green led the team with 27 points, converting 11-of-20 field goal attempts. Miles Barnstable contributed 15 points, all in the second half. He hit three 3-pointers and making 6-of-7 free throws. Ade Popoola added nine points, all from beyond the arc, and collected eight defensive rebounds. Tyler Behrend recorded 11 points, including a successful 3-pointer and two free throws, while also tallying four rebounds.

Tulsa took an early lead, fueled by a fast-break layup from Green at 17:05. They maintained momentum with effective use of turnovers, converting the Owls' miscues into points, including a crucial 3-pointer by Popoola at 9:20 that brought them within striking distance.

The Golden Hurricane's defense was active, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on these opportunities. Despite missing several shots from beyond the arc, Tulsa stayed competitive through points in the paint and fast breaks. The half concluded with Tulsa trailing the Owls, 32-25.

Tulsa started the second half with a momentum-shifting series, taking control at 16:42 with a layup by Green, tying the game at 36-36. A technical foul by Xander Pintelon of Fla. Atlantic allowed Barnstable to convert two free throws, further pushing Tulsa ahead. The Golden Hurricane then extended their advantage with a 3-pointer by Barnstable and a fast-break layup by Myles Rigsby to gain a 10-point lead at 13:24.

As the half progressed, Tulsa maintained their edge with consistent inside scoring, highlighted by Green's layup at 9:25, which kept the Owls at bay. Despite a late surge by the home team, including a 3-pointer by Niccolo Moretti that tied the game at 61-61, Tulsa responded with a decisive 3-pointer from Popoola at 1:58, ensuring they stayed ahead.

The closing moments were tense, with Tulsa maintaining composure under pressure. Barnstable's free throws extended the lead, and despite late attempts by the Owls, Tulsa secured a 78-76 victory, closing the half with a narrow margin.

Tulsa heads to South Florida to wrap up its road swing with an 11 a.m. CT tip as the team looks to create separation at the top of the standings.

Visit www.TulsaHurricane.com for the latest news and information on the men's basketball program. Fans can also follow the team on X, Facebook and Instagram.