Oregon State University’s Men’s Basketball team did not just rebuild, but got revamped and ready to make noise as they enter this season with a new look, renewed confidence and a clear mission to raise the standard.
After a year of growth and lessons learned, the Beavers return with a balanced mix of veterans and rookies. Players who’ve worked culture, toughness, chemistry, and consistency to the team. The message from within the program is clear: This isn’t a rebuild. It’s a comeback.
“We are excited with this new group,” Head Coach Wayne Tinkle said at West Coast Conference Media Day. “To build off of the momentum we built last season.”
Tinkle has led Oregon State to its most successful run in more than three decades as he continues to build the Beaver basketball program back to national prominence. Tinkle has posted six winning seasons, and only four losing seasons, in his 10 years in Corvallis.
“Nine new players going into last season…, again nine new players (this season),” Tinkle said. “But what we love about this crew is their selflessness, they want to build off that success.”
Third -year forward Johan Munch, one of the team’s returning players, says the lessons from last season have fueled the team’s mindset.
“Last year taught me how much consistency matters,” Munch said in an email. “Whether it’s practice, film or recovery, the teams that win are the ones that show up every day with the same focus. That’s something I’m carrying with me — being steady, locked in and trusting the process.”
That process started early in the offseason, when returning players and new players both committed to raising the bar. From draining conditioning sessions to long hours in the film room, the team’s identity began to take shape.
“Yeah, we had a lot of new faces this year, so it definitely feels different,” Munch said. “But that’s what makes it exciting. The new guys came in hungry, they fit right into what we’re building, and the returning guys know what it takes now. It’s a fresh mix, but the chemistry came together fast.”
Munch, who spent the summer strengthening both his body and his game, is embracing his expanded role as a leader.
“Being a returner means setting the tone,” he said. “I’m not the loudest guy, but I try to lead by example — doing things the right way, being early, communicating, and helping the new guys adjust. It’s about making sure everyone feels connected and locked in to what we’re doing.”
Across the gym, fourth-year guard Josiah Lake II shares that same commitment. Known for his leadership and energy, Lake II has become a powerful player for the Beavers’ revamped roster.
“Last season taught me the importance of staying consistent through ups and downs,” Lake II said in an email. “No matter what’s happening, the work and mindset have to stay the same every day. That’s something I’m definitely carrying into this year.”
Lake II returned this season with a desire to help Oregon State take the next leap forward.
“I felt like there was still more I could give — to the program, my teammates, and myself,” he said. “I wanted to grow as a leader and help this team take another step forward.”
“The energy feels different,” Lake II continued. “Everyone’s locked in, more connected, and holding each other accountable. There’s a real sense of trust and chemistry building early on.”
Both players agree that the Beavers’ identity this season is rooted in union and persistent effort.
“Toughness and togetherness — that’s who we are,” Munch said. “We play for each other. Whether it’s diving on the floor or making the extra pass, everyone’s bought in. That’s our identity.”
Lake II had the same ideology, backing Munch’s words.
“We’re hungry and disciplined,” he said. “Everyone’s bought into competing on both ends and playing for each other. The goal is to be the team that outworks and outlasts people.”