Oklahoma Baptist opens its 2026-27 season at the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic in Florida, looking to build on a historic run to last season’s NCAA Division II Final Four. Coach Jason Eaker’s Bison return key contributors Erik Madrid, JC Curry, Christian Hodge and Austin Coner, but must replace several senior starters and Terry Coner Jr., who transferred to Division I California Baptist.

By the Numbers
  • OBU went 31-4 in 2025-26, including an 18-game winning streak.
  • The Bison were 13-0 at home and won the program’s first NCAA Division II Central Region title.
  • Junior center Erik Madrid stands 7 feet, 2 inches tall.
Yes, But

OBU’s historic season sets a high bar, but replacing Terry Coner Jr.—the program’s first Division II All-American—as well as seniors Joshua Udoumoh, Jackson Greene and Jose Waring will test the returning core.

What's Next

The Hall of Fame Classic offers an early look at how the Bison’s returning contributors and new lineup handle the transition as they pursue another NCAA tournament run.

Bottom Line

OBU enters the season with proven momentum and a formidable returning core, but sustaining last year’s success depends on how quickly it fills the gaps left by key departures.