In his coaching career, Steve Lutz has been a part of some close games. But Wednesday night’s loss to TCU is one of the games that came down to the literal last play of the game.
Oklahoma State had a 71-70 lead in Fort Worth with 3.2 seconds left and fifth-year senior Brandon Newman was fouled. Newman stepped to the free throw line and missed the first free throw.
Neither team had a timeout. He made the second free throw to make it 72-70 with 3.2 in regulation. TCU’s Jace Posey heaved the ball from the end line to Vasean Allette who quickly turned around and hit a three-pointer from the top of the key as time expired.
With less than 24 hours to think about the final plays of the game, Lutz was asked about Newman’s free throws at his Thursday press conference.
“With 2.2 seconds, I would have absolutely missed the free throw,” Lutz began. “With 3.2 seconds, that’s an extra dribble. TCU in close games this year has gotten (Noah) Reynolds the basketball and he’s been able to get down the floor and get off a good shot. Really you’re just playing the percentages.”
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