Jeremiah Fears' performance in the final minutes of OU's Jumpman Invitational clash with Michigan on Wednesday in Charlotte, North Carolina, was nothing short of remarkable. Throughout the game, he initially struggled with turnovers, but in the closing seconds, he showed the true potential that had been glimpsed throughout the second half. His four-point play lifted the Sooners to victory and left the crowd in awe.

The Electrifying Finish that Defined Oklahoma's Victory

First Half Struggles and Comebacks

Jeremiah Fears seemed like a freshman for much of the final minutes, committing a series of turnovers and making it seem as if the Sooners were destined to fall short against the 21st-ranked Wolverines. However, their fighting spirit kept them in the game, constantly battling back. But it was in the closing minute that the tide turned. Sam Godwin's block and Glenn Taylor Jr.'s steal set the stage for the late heroics.It didn't look like the Sooners would get a chance to win, but their determination paid off. Fears came off a screen and drained the game-tying 3-pointer, absorbing a foul from Michigan's Roddy Gayle Jr. This gave them new life and set the stage for the final moments.

Second Half Dominance and Key Plays

In the second half, Fears truly showed his mettle. He finished with 30 points, 20 of which came in the second half. He was 8 of 12 from the field and 11 of 13 from the free-throw line, showing his scoring ability and composure. His calmness in hitting the free throw to put the Sooners ahead was crucial.Michigan had to settle for a 3-pointer on the final possession, but Tre Donaldson's shot hit off the back iron. By the time Danny Wolf corralled it, time had expired, giving the Sooners (11-0) their best start since 2015-16.

3-Point Shooting and Foul Trouble

The Sooners' 12 3-pointers made a significant difference. They shot better from beyond the arc (48%) than inside it (46.9%). Fears, Jalon Moore, and Duke Miles each hit three 3-pointers, providing a crucial offensive boost.However, the Wolverines struggled, shooting just 4 of 28 from beyond the arc with no player hitting multiple threes. This showed the importance of 3-point shooting in the game.OU also struggled with foul trouble in the second half. Jalon Moore fouled out late, and Fears finished with four fouls. But Sam Godwin navigated his early foul trouble well, playing 17 minutes in the second half and making the critical block that kept OU's hopes alive.

Oklahoma's Men's Basketball Schedule

The Oklahoma men's basketball schedule for 2024 is packed with exciting games. From the early matchups against Lindenwood and Northwestern State to the intense battles against teams like Alabama, Texas A&M, and more. The team has been performing well, with a 11-0 start this season.The upcoming games against Michigan, Central Arkansas, Prairie View A&M, and other conference opponents will be crucial in determining their season.We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.