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The Oologah-Talala Mustangs boys basketball team enters the new season with renewed energy and a clear sense of direction under head coach Caleb Branscum. After spending the offseason focusing on fundamentals, conditioning, and team chemistry, the Mustangs are aiming to reestablish themselves as a consistent contender in district play. Branscum says the group has bought into a tougher defensive identity, one built on communication and disciplined rotations, which he believes will give them a strong foundation through the winter.

Offensively, Oologah-Talala is expected to lean on a balanced approach rather than a single go-to scorer. The Mustangs return several players who saw meaningful minutes last season, giving the team experience at key positions. Branscum has emphasized better shot selection and improved ball movement, hoping to create more high-percentage looks and cut down on turnovers that hurt the team in close games a year ago. With a mix of veteran leadership and developing young talent, the roster looks deeper and more versatile than in recent seasons.

The Mustangs are also placing heavy importance on mental toughness and late-game execution—areas Branscum believes can swing multiple outcomes over the course of the year. With a challenging non-district slate designed to prepare them for the postseason grind, Oologah-Talala expects to grow quickly as the competition ramps up. If the team continues to gel and embraces the identity Branscum is building, the Mustangs have a real opportunity to surprise opponents and make noise throughout the season.