The Oklahoma Sooners paid tribute to the legendary country singer Toby Keith during their men’s basketball game on Tuesday evening. Keith tragically passed away on Monday night after his battle with stomach cancer.
The Sooners community gathered to honor the iconic musician, who was widely known as one of their biggest fans. Prior to the OU men’s basketball game against BYU, a special tribute was held for the late Keith. His seat at Lloyd Noble Center was adorned with a guitar, a red Solo cup, and an OU hat.
Keith’s presence in Norman was still strongly felt even after his passing. A moment of silence was observed for Toby Keith before the game.
“Forever a Sooner,” OU shared on social media. After the game, the men’s team took a group photo, which was posted on X with the caption, “Red Solo Cup.”
According to a statement from Keith’s family, the 62-year-old passed away peacefully on Monday night.
Earlier on Tuesday, OU released a statement in remembrance of Keith as tributes poured in throughout the morning.
“The OU Athletics family is deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Toby Keith. It is truly heartbreaking to live in a world without Toby. He brought life and joy to every room he entered, and our hearts are heavier today without him. He was an American icon and a devoted supporter of our program.
“A superstar talent and a loyal friend to our program. We thank him for his unwavering support, his generosity as a human being, and the countless smiles and memories he created here in Oklahoma and around the world. Our love goes out to Tricia, Shelley, Krystal, Stelen, and their families. We will miss you on campus, TK. We are mourning for ourselves.”
Sooners fans will continue to honor Keith’s memory by playing “Red Solo Cup” loudly. Keith’s memory inspired Oklahoma to deliver a strong performance in the second half of the game against BYU, resulting in an 82-66 victory.
Sooners coach Porter Moser paid tribute to Keith in his post-game comments, stating, “Our guys played their hearts out for Toby Keith.” Moser also raised a red cup in honor of the legend.
“I just want to say, today is a tough day for our nation. We lost a dear friend, Toby Keith,” Moser said. “I heard his songs playing in the arena. And I’ve been here for three years; he became a true friend of mine… he embodies everything you aspire to be. …
“Today, we raise a glass to Toby Keith. I wish there was something other than water in my glass right now, because he is a true legend, a true friend to everyone. And I just want to say that our guys played their hearts out tonight for Toby Keith to secure this win. And I know he was watching over us tonight. So to everyone in Sooner Nation and friends across the country, raise your glass tonight to Toby Keith.”
Rest in Peace
Alejandro Avila resides in Southern California and previously reported on news for the LA Football Network. Jeopardy aficionado and grumpy sports enthusiast. Known for having watched every film and a constant desire for dessert. @alejandroaveela (on X)