Oklahoma State Athletics and the Osage Nation have announced a landmark partnership that will place an Osage jersey patch on all Oklahoma State varsity athletic uniforms beginning with the 2026-27 competition season.
The agreement marks a historic first for Oklahoma State Athletics, as the Osage patch becomes the first sponsor mark ever displayed on varsity athletic uniforms in the university's history. The partnership also highlights the evolving landscape of college athletics, where innovative collaborations can create meaningful opportunities while telling stories that are deeply connected to a university's identity and community.
The relationship between Oklahoma State and the Osage Nation has been years in the making. Located just minutes from the OSU-Tulsa campus, Osage Casino Hotel Tulsa became an integral part of the university community through its support of the Osage Casino Hotel Student Union in North Hall, which opened in 2020. Since then, the two institutions have continued to strengthen their ties through partnerships across several areas of mutual interest.
"Oklahoma State Athletics is building momentum in this new era of sport," said Kimberly Pearson, Chief Executive Officer of Osage Casinos and Hotels. "Osage is proud to be able to support the student-athletes and programs across the athletic department. We've built a strong connection with the university through other projects, and this brings the relationship to a broader stage. It's about visibility, opportunity and continuing to invest in the future of our people and our communities."
For Oklahoma State, the partnership also signals how the athletic department is adapting in an increasingly commercial and competitive era of college sports. Weiberg called the agreement an early example of the possibilities created through the department's new organizational structure focused on generating revenue growth and commercial opportunities.
More importantly, the Osage jersey patch represents something bigger than branding. It serves as a visible symbol of partnership, shared history and a commitment to creating opportunities that benefit both institutions and the communities they serve. Beginning in the 2026-27 season, Cowboy and Cowgirl student-athletes will carry that story with them every time they take the field, court or competition stage, proudly representing both Oklahoma State University and the Osage Nation across the country.