Popoola’s Big Afternoon Not Enough as Tulsa Falls at USF

Sunday, February 8

Tampa, Fla.

11 a.m.

Tulsa

20-4,8-3American

South Florida

16-8,8-3American

Tulsa

South Fla.

Popoola’s Big Afternoon Not Enough as Tulsa Falls at USF

2/8/2026 1:57:00 PM | Men's Basketball

Box Score

TAMPA, Fla. — A monster afternoon from beyond the arc by Ade Popoola wasn't enough to overcome a slow start in an 80-74 defeat at South Florida on Sunday in the Yuengling Center. Popoola led the way with 24 points, hitting eight threes to tie for the second most in program history.

Miles Barnstable added 13 points, including three shots from beyond the arc, and collected six rebounds. David Green contributed 16 points, hitting three 3-pointers, and recorded a block. Tyler Riley distributed six assists and chipped in six points.

Tulsa opened the first half with an aggressive offensive effort, highlighted by Popoola's three 3-pointers, including a crucial one in transition at the 52-second mark. They capitalized on offensive rebounds, securing 12 in total, which facilitated second-chance opportunities and kept the score close despite early turnovers. Myles Rigsby added a key three-point play at 14:50, contributing to Tulsa's bench output of 12 points.

Defensively, the Golden Hurricane struggled with fouls, committing 12, allowing South Florida to make frequent trips to the free-throw line. South Florida maintained a narrow lead through the half, aided by CJ Brown's consistent scoring and Izaiyah Nelson's presence in the paint. The half closed with Tulsa trailing South Florida 39-35.

Tulsa opened the second half with a challenge as the Bulls quickly extended their lead with a 3-pointer and a fast-break play by Nelson. The Golden Hurricane responded with a layup by Green, assisted by Tyler Behrend, helping to maintain the pace. A series of successful 3-pointers by Popoola, including one at the 15-minute mark, leveled the game at 49–49.

Tulsa showcased their shooting range, hitting 10 three-pointers in the half, which included crucial contributions from Green and Riley. Despite this, South Florida managed to regain their lead with consistent scoring, highlighted by a layup and free throws by Nelson. The game concluded with a score of 80–74 in favor of South Florida, as Tulsa managed to keep the deficit within reach with a late 3-pointer by Barnstable.

The Golden Hurricane return to the Reynolds Center to host UAB on Wednesday, earlier in the season Tulsa handled the Blazers in a 99-77 win in Birmingham.

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.