CHARLESTON, S.C. — KyKy Tandy delivered an impressive performance with 21 points as Florida Atlantic surged in the latter stages of the second half to secure an 86-78 victory over Oklahoma State on Thursday during the Charleston Classic.

This defeat marks the second consecutive loss of a Power Four team in the tournament, following Miami’s earlier setback against Drake. Florida Atlantic, currently holding a record of 4-2, is set to face the Bulldogs in Friday’s semifinals, while Oklahoma State (3-1) will compete against the Hurricanes in a consolation match.

The momentum shifted when Leland Walker executed a three-point play with 4:38 remaining in the game, giving FAU its first lead since the score was 16-14—now at 68-67. Tandy followed up with a pivotal three-pointer from the corner, completing an 11-1 run that extended their lead to 75-68 with just 2:41 left on the clock.

Oklahoma State struggled offensively in the closing minutes, unable to score for over five minutes until Brandon Newman secured a fast-break layup with 1:17 remaining. However, Ken Evans Jr. quickly responded with a three-point play that pushed the FAU lead to nine points. The Cowboys then lost possession on their next drive with just 52.3 seconds left in the game.

For Florida Atlantic, Evans contributed 13 points, Walker added 12, and Tre Carroll chipped in 10. The Owls were aggressive, attempting 49 free throws, which resulted in three Oklahoma State players fouling out and three others accumulating four fouls each.

From Oklahoma State, Khalil Brantley scored 16 points, while Robert Jennings II achieved a career-best 14 points alongside 11 rebounds. Patrick Suemnick had to leave the game due to injury with 1:40 remaining in the first half and did not return.

Despite Oklahoma State leading 39-34 at halftime, their shooting percentage was only 33.3%. Meanwhile, Florida Atlantic produced a better shooting rate from the field at 47.8%, although they struggled with free throws, making only 46.7% in the first half.