Wayne Tinkle has seen just about everything in his basketball life, from a 12-year overseas playing career to two decades leading college programs. The 59-year-old Oregon State head coach has quietly rebuilt the Beavers into a respectable contender again, and after a 20-win season, there’s renewed optimism that 2026 could finally bring a long-awaited return to the NCAA Tournament.
From Montana to Corvallis
A native of Milwaukee who grew up in Washington, Tinkle found his basketball roots at Montana, both as a player and later as a coach. He returned to the Grizzlies as an assistant in 2001, taking over as head coach five years later. His tenure there produced two Big Sky regular season titles and three tournament crowns before he accepted the Oregon State job in 2014.
Peaks, Valleys, and a Pac-12 Run
Tinkle’s time in Corvallis has had its share of highs and lows. The 2020–21 season marked a high point when he guided the Beavers to a stunning Elite Eight run in the NCAA Tournament. But the years that followed were challenging, three consecutive losing seasons and a 27–68 record left Oregon State searching for answers.
Last season marked a turning point. Transitioning into the West Coast Conference, the Beavers went 20–13 overall and 10–8 in league play, showing signs of stability once again.
Closing Last Season and Looking Ahead
The season ended with a tough 76–75 loss to Central Florida in the College Basketball Classic, the team’s fourth straight defeat after falling to Pepperdine in the conference tournament. Despite the disappointing finish, Oregon State’s growth was undeniable, the program’s first 20-win campaign in four years.
Heading into 2025–26, Tinkle carries a 162–190 record at Oregon State and 320–281 overall as a head coach. His team was picked fifth in the WCC preseason poll, trailing only Gonzaga, Saint Mary’s, San Francisco, and Santa Clara. Early wins over North Dakota State and Illinois-Chicago have built some momentum before a midweek matchup with North Texas.
Believing the Beavers Can Dance Again
Oregon State’s goals are clear: end their NCAA Tournament drought and prove they belong among the WCC’s elite. Returning contributors like Josiah Lake II, who hit the game-winning layup against North Dakota State, will play a key role. A rivalry clash with Oregon looms next Monday, a chance for Tinkle and his team to make a statement.
After steady progress and renewed confidence, the Beavers believe they can take the next step under a coach who’s made a career out of building programs the right way.