Opinion
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Baylor Bears Set to Lock Horns with Oklahoma Sooners at Ferrell Center

As the Baylor Bears prepare to host the Oklahoma Sooners on Valentine's Day, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying showdown at the Ferrell Center. The Bears, coming off a resounding victory against the Delta Devils on December 23rd, where they scored a mammoth 107 points, are looking sharper than ever. With an impressive field goal percentage of 67 percent and a three-point shooting rate of 63 percent in that game, it's clear that Baylor has found its rhythm.


Feb 8, 2023; Waco, Texas, USA;  Oklahoma Sooners guard Otega Oweh (3) scores a basket over Baylor Bears guard LJ Cryer (4) during the first half at Ferrell Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports

The team's ability to spread the love with 27 assists while maintaining control of the ball – as evidenced by their low turnover count of nine – is indicative of their cohesive playstyle. Moreover, their defensive prowess cannot be overlooked; they managed to snag 12 steals from Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU), which contributed significantly to their staggering 28 points off turnovers.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for BAY in recent outings. The December 21st clash against Duke Blue Devils at Madison Square Garden saw them fall short by eight points in a tightly contested game that featured eight lead changes. Despite this setback and another loss against Michigan State Spartans on December 16th where they struggled with turnovers and personal fouls, there is still much optimism surrounding BAY’s capabilities.


Feb 8, 2023; Waco, Texas, USA; Baylor Bears guard LJ Cryer (4) controls the ball against Oklahoma Sooners guard Milos Uzan (12) during the first half at Ferrell Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming match-up will not be without its challenges as OKLA brings its own set of skills to Waco. But if Baylor can replicate their dominant performance from their last home game and continue improving upon areas exposed in previous losses – particularly reducing personal fouls and turnovers – there is no reason why they can't come out on top once again.


With players likely still feeling the sting from those close defeats and fueled by the roaring home crowd support, expect BAY to enter this game with something to prove. It will take disciplined defense coupled with efficient scoring runs if they wish to secure victory over OKLA.


Feb 8, 2023; Waco, Texas, USA;  Baylor Bears forward Flo Thamba (0) grabs a rebound against Oklahoma Sooners forward Tanner Groves (35) during the first half at Ferrell Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports

Fans eager for this mid-February battle can catch all the action live on ESPN Networks when these two teams collide under the bright lights of Ferrell Center on February 13th at 9:00 PM EST (8:00 PM local time). This isn't just any other game; it's an opportunity for Baylor Bears to solidify themselves as serious contenders this season while delivering some heartbreak to visiting Sooners fans right on Valentine’s Eve.

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