Oregon State University Parts Ways with Longtime Coach Wayne Tinkle Ahead of 2026-2027 Season

Oregon State University Parts Ways with Longtime Coach Wayne Tinkle Ahead of 2026-2027 Season

Oregon State University has announced that longtime coach Wayne Tinkle will not be returning for the 2026-2027 season. The decision was made by athletic director Scott Barnes, with the Beavers currently holding a 16-14 record. Tinkle, who has been with the team for 12 seasons, led Oregon State to two NCAA tournament appearances, with the most notable being their Elite Eight run in 2021.

Following a successful 2021 season, where the Beavers made a deep tournament run, the team struggled in the subsequent season, finishing with a 3-28 record. Oregon State has been competing in the West Coast Conference for the past two seasons but will return to the Pac-12 next season. Tinkle's overall record at Oregon State stands at 176-204, taking over from Craig Robinson after a successful stint at Montana.

As the Beavers look ahead to a new era in the Pac-12, the decision to part ways with Tinkle marks a significant change for the program. With the upcoming season bringing new challenges and opportunities, Oregon State will be seeking a fresh start under new leadership.