Oklahoma State basketball notebook: Rowdy returns to Gallagher-Iba Arena

Cowboys fans, on New Year's Eve and with their football team due to play in the Heart of Dallas Bowl less than 18 hours later, responded still, filling the lower bowls and much of the upper section, with only a scattering of empty seats in the corners.

“We're trying to bring the rowdiness back,” said OSU freshman Marcus Smart. “That's what we live for, big crowds like this and big moments.

“We thank the crowd for coming out and supporting us tonight.”

The big-name opponent and the gesture by Boone Pickens to buy 4,000 tickets and distribute them for free all played a part in the turnout, which was officially a sellout.

OSU's marketing department also placed free orange shirts that read “Bringing Rowdy Back” on 1,700 seats in the lower level.

“It was great to see,” said Cowboys coach Travis Ford. “Thanks to Boone Pickens and what he did to pack the stadium. I wish we could have gotten them a victory. I know the players are very disappointed about that.

“We appreciate the support, and we hope they come back because we're going to need it. We have a very young basketball team that needs all the help they can get.”