Basketball
Three Takeaways from No. 10 Oklahoma's Win over No. 20 Michigan in Basketball
2024-12-18
Oklahoma showcased its prowess on Tuesday night with another impressive non-conference win. Under the leadership of Jennie Baranczyk, the No. 10-ranked Sooners overcame an early deficit to defeat the 20th-ranked Michigan Wolverines 72 - 62 in the Jumpman Invitational at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC. Four different Sooners, led by Payton Verhulst, scored in double-figures, and in the final quarter, they broke down Michigan's sturdy defense to claim the victory. With this win, Oklahoma moved to 10 - 1 on the year, while Michigan fell to 9 - 2.
Up-Tempo Play and Versatility
Under Baranczyk, the Sooners have become renowned for their up-tempo style of play. On Tuesday night, Michigan's defense was excellent, but it couldn't stop Oklahoma. The Sooners demonstrated their ability to win in both fast-paced and physical defensive battles. Michigan and Oklahoma made the same number of field goals, but Oklahoma forced 26 turnovers, evening the playing field. Their 3-point shooting was also crucial in turning the tide. Anchored by Raegan Beers, the Sooners' defense has been outstanding all year, and they needed every stop to stay ahead of the 20th-ranked team in Charlotte.It took a team effort from Oklahoma to secure the victory. The usual suspects like Beers, Peyton Verhulst, Skylar Vann, and Sahara Williams led the charge, but seven different Sooners made at least two buckets. In the closing moments of the third quarter, when Beers picked up her third foul and had to sit, Lexy Keys came alive. She hit a pair of 3-pointers to help Oklahoma maintain its lead.Fourth-Quarter Dominance
Entering the fourth quarter with a three-point lead, the Sooners extended their advantage thanks to the Vann sisters. Zya Vann knocked down a triple and went to the foul line to push the lead past a single possession. Then Skylar took over. The reigning Big 12 Co-Player of the Year scored seven quick points on 3 - of - 3 shooting from the floor, giving the Sooners a 12 - point lead, the largest of the night. Her strong fourth-quarter performance, along with Lexy Keys', led Oklahoma to their fourth-straight win.The Sooners' ability to adapt and perform in different situations was on full display. They showed that they can win in various ways and with different players stepping up at the right times. This victory adds to their growing reputation as a tough and versatile team.