The Big 12 levied a $50,000 fine against Oklahoma State after it conducted an investigation into “inappropriate chants” that allegedly occurred during Oklahoma State’s 99-92 win against No. 16 BYU Wednesday night. Broadcast audio caught Oklahoma State fans chanting either “f— the Mormons” or “Ref’s a Mormon” after a foul was assessed against the Cowboys late in the second half. Oklahoma State will not appeal the fine.
Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark issued a statement after the game and said both schools had been notified of the investigation and that the conference has “no tolerance” for the purported behavior.
“In accordance with the Big 12 Conference Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship, the Conference has issued Oklahoma State University a $50,000 fine following its investigation into inappropriate chants which referenced the Mormon religion that occurred during Wednesday’s men’s basketball game,” the conference said Sunday in a statement. “The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others.”
Oklahoma State announced that it conducted its own immediate investigation into the allegations and that it will accept the Big 12’s ruling.
“It was determined that a derogatory chant followed a disputed call and referenced the Mormon faith in relation to game officials,” Oklahoma State said Sunday in a statement. “The reference to religion did not meet our standards and expectations. Oklahoma State respects the Big 12’s decision and will not appeal the fine.
“The Cowboy Code calls us to treat others with respect and dignity. Oklahoma State University values the relationship we have with BYU and deeply respects its community and faith. We will continue to ensure that the atmosphere at our events reflects the values of the Cowboy family.”
The Big 12 fined Colorado $50,000 and publicly reprimanded it in September after its student section reportedly chanted “f— BYU” and “f— the Mormons” during a football game between Colorado and BYU. BYU, founded and supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has previously been the target of similar religiously charged chants at other schools.
BYU coach Kevin Young asserted that Oklahoma State’s student section chanted “f— the Mormons.”
“It’s a great win for Oklahoma State University. Their fans should be proud,” Young said. “But it would be great if some class was in there as well. I got four small kids at home, you know. I’m a Mormon. When I go home, they’re going to ask me about it, same way they asked me about it last year at Arizona. There’s just too much hate in the world to be saying stuff like that. We’ve got enough problems in our world without going after peoples’ religion and beliefs.”
Oklahoma State fans stormed the court following the Cowboys’ upset win against the Cougars, which may also be subject to a fine.