Opinion
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Sooners Set to Defend Home Court Against Cowboys in Norman Showdown

As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare to host their rivals, the Oklahoma State Cowboys, at the Lloyd Noble Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Sooners have been showing signs of dominance on their home turf and will look to continue that trend against a formidable opponent.


Feb 1, 2023; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners forward Sam Godwin (10) and Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Avery Anderson III (0) fight for control of the ball during the first half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

The previous matchups provide insight into what can be expected from the Sooners. On December 21st against North Carolina Tar Heels, despite falling short with 69 points against 81, they showed resilience and an ability to compete against top-ranked teams. They managed a two-point field goal percentage of 47 percent and were able to convert 30 percent from beyond the arc. However, turnovers were a thorn in their side with a total of 18 for that game.


In contrast, when facing Green Bay Phoenix on December 17th at home, OKLA demonstrated why they're considered one of the powerhouses this season by securing an emphatic victory with an impressive scoreline of 81-47. Their shooting was particularly noteworthy; they shot an outstanding 52 percent from the field and dominated inside the paint scoring 44 points.


Feb 1, 2023; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys forward Tyreek Smith (23) and Oklahoma Sooners guard Grant Sherfield (25) fight for a loose ball during the first half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

Against Arkansas Razorbacks on December 9th in Tulsa's BOK Center – although not technically a home game – OKLA still had strong fan support which seemed to fuel their performance leading them to another win scoring 79 points over Razorbacks'70. Their shooting was again efficient at over fifty percent from both field goals and free throws.


The upcoming game is set up perfectly for OKLA as they return back home where they've shown considerable strength especially in offensive execution. The team has been effective in controlling rebounds as well as capitalizing on turnovers which could prove pivotal against OKST who will undoubtedly come prepared for battle.


Feb 1, 2023; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Grant Sherfield (25) drives to the basket as Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Caleb Asberry (5) defends during the second half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

OKST should not be underestimated though; any lapse in concentration or execution by OKLA could swing momentum in favor of the visitors who will look to exploit any weaknesses shown by Sooners' defense which has occasionally been exposed this season.


Fans eagerly await February's clash hoping that it mirrors previous successes rather than shortcomings. With strategic adjustments and continued emphasis on offensive efficiency coupled with robust defense strategies, there is every reason for optimism among Sooner supporters.


Mark your calendars for February 11th when Oklahoma takes center stage at Lloyd Noble Center at Norman under bright lights broadcasted live via ESPN+. Tip-off is scheduled after sunset so fans should ensure they're ready for what promises to be another chapter added into this storied rivalry's history books.

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