STILLWATER – A big piece to the puzzle for Steve Lutz and Co. is back. Freshman big man Ben Ahmed took to his Instagram on Wednesday night to announce he’ll be returning to Oklahoma State for the 2026-27 season.
Ahmed is a 6-10, 275-pound center who came on strong as his freshman season progressed following an injury which sidelined him most of the fall and the first half of the season.
He played in 27 games this past season, starting in seven, including the final six. He averaged five points and nearly four rebounds per game, while shooting 55% from the floor. He also had nine blocks and five steals.
While his season averages are lower, he posted double-digit points in four of the final six games of the season, including 10 in the win at UCF and 11 against Houston in the regular season finale. He had 10 in the Big 12 tourney loss to Houston, but helped put the Pokes over against Davidson in the opening round of the NIT as he had 16 points on 60% shooting and six rebounds.
Ahmed joins point guard Kanye Clary as the two who have announced returns for next season.