Basketball
Aggies Stun Sooners in Thrilling Comeback Victory
2025-01-09

The Oklahoma Sooners experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as they squandered an 18-point lead against the Texas A&M Aggies. Despite Brycen Goodine's exceptional shooting performance, Oklahoma's offensive struggles and critical turnovers allowed the Aggies to mount a remarkable comeback. The game concluded with a narrow 80-78 victory for Texas A&M, marking Oklahoma's second consecutive loss. Key moments included missed opportunities by Jeremiah Fears and Duke Miles, while Zhuric Phelps emerged as the hero for the Aggies with a crucial three-pointer in the final seconds.

Goodine's Stellar Performance Overshadowed by Team's Collapse

Brycen Goodine delivered a standout performance, lighting up the Lloyd Noble Center with his sharpshooting. His nine successful three-pointers electrified the crowd and set a personal best for points in a game. However, despite his efforts, the team's inability to maintain momentum ultimately led to their downfall. Goodine's contribution was not enough to counterbalance the team's second-half meltdown.

In a season marked by potential, Goodine's night was nothing short of spectacular. He scored a career-high 34 points, tying for the third-most three-pointers made in a single game by an OU player. His shooting prowess was on full display, hitting shot after shot from beyond the arc. Yet, the Sooners' poor execution in crucial moments and a staggering 18 turnovers undermined Goodine's brilliance. Coach Porter Moser praised Goodine's performance but lamented the missed opportunities that turned a promising start into a disappointing finish.

Freshman Struggles and Turnover Troubles Plague Sooners

Jerry Fears, the true freshman guard, faced significant challenges throughout the game. Double-teamed by the Aggies' defense, he struggled to find scoring opportunities early on. While he managed to contribute 13 points by the end, including a timely three-pointer, his impact was overshadowed by a critical free throw miss late in the game. This miscue cost the Sooners a chance to regain the lead.

The Sooners' downfall was further exacerbated by their season-high 18 turnovers, which translated into 30 points for the Aggies. Oklahoma's offense faltered in the second half, going over six minutes without a field goal. Coach Moser highlighted the need for better decision-making and ball control. The Aggies capitalized on these mistakes, outscoring the Sooners 50-39 in the final period. Zhuric Phelps, stepping up in Wade Taylor IV's absence, led the charge with 34 points, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure. The Sooners now face the challenge of regrouping before their next matchup against Georgia, aiming to rebuild confidence and address their defensive shortcomings.

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