The first SEC matchup between Oklahoma and Texas showcased a fiercely competitive game filled with lead changes, fouls, and intense moments. The No. 9-ranked Sooners faced off against the No. 5 Longhorns in a match that saw six lead changes, 54 fouls, and even a 12-minute video review due to an altercation under the basket. Despite tying at the end of the third quarter, Texas managed to capitalize on Oklahoma’s mistakes in the final minutes, securing an 80-73 victory. This win broke Texas’ two-game losing streak against the Sooners, while Oklahoma fell to 12-2 overall and 0-1 in conference play.

Oklahoma's Struggles with Ball Control

The Sooners started strong but faltered as the game progressed. In the second quarter alone, they turned the ball over eight times, allowing Texas to gain the upper hand by halftime. These turnovers continued into the third quarter, with another eight miscues, leading to 27 total mistakes that Texas converted into 28 points. Coach Baranczyk acknowledged the difficulty in maintaining a rhythm when the team kept passing the ball to the wrong side. Guard Payton Verhulst noted that despite focusing heavily on ball control in practice, the team still struggled during the game.

Verhulst emphasized that the full-court press employed by Texas exacerbated the issue. "We knew it was coming," she said, "but it still affected us more than we expected." The Sooners' inability to maintain possession disrupted their offensive flow, making it challenging to execute plays effectively. Verhulst added that this experience would help them identify areas for improvement, ensuring they can perform better in future games. The team's focus on ball security will be crucial as they prepare for upcoming matches.

Key Performances and Offensive Challenges

Despite the loss, several players stood out for Oklahoma. Payton Verhulst led all scorers with 23 points, contributing significantly to the team's effort. However, her efficiency was hampered by a tough shooting night, hitting only 7 of 23 attempts. Verhulst also excelled defensively, grabbing eight rebounds and dishing out four assists. Notably, she committed only one turnover, showcasing her composure amidst the team's struggles.

Liz Scott emerged as a key player, especially when Raegan Beers faced foul trouble. Scott scored 14 points, tying her season-high, and demonstrated excellent performance from the free-throw line. Her energy and contribution were vital in maintaining Oklahoma’s momentum during critical moments. Coach Baranczyk praised Scott’s efforts, highlighting her ability to hold her own against taller opponents. While Oklahoma had opportunities from the free-throw line and enjoyed a slight advantage there, their poor shooting from beyond the arc (2-of-16) proved costly. Baranczyk pointed out that the team's offensive issues, particularly in the second half, hindered their ability to generate consistent scoring chances.