The NCAA Tournament is back! The showdown between No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners and No. 8 UConn Huskies is one you won’t want to miss. A potential showdown with the number one seed in the South region, the Florida Gators is on the line. The defending champs have a tall task if they are going to win it all again. Let’s preview this matchup.
Oklahoma Vs. UConn Preview
- Date: Friday, March 21st
- Game Time: 9:25 PM EST
- Venue: Lenovo Center
- How to Watch (TV): TNT
- Oklahoma Record: 20-13
- UConn Record: 23-10
Oklahoma has carved their path into the NCAA Tournament thanks to a resilient effort against a tough schedule. Despite a challenging season, their offensive prowess cannot be overlooked, with impressive shooting stats that put them in the upper echelons of NCAA teams. Their offense is led by guard Jeremiah Fears, who averages 17.0 points per game. Forward Jalen Moore is the other member of the Sooners that averages double figures with 16.0 per game. However, their defense and rebounding leaves something to be desired.
On the other side of the court, UConn are the defending champs but have had an up-and-down year. While not quite the domineering force of the past two seasons, UConn’s defense remains intimidating, particularly around the rim, and their rebounding skills make them a formidable opponent. They have a balanced scoring attack with the trio of Solo Ball, Liam McNeeley, and Alex Karaban all averaging double figures. The Huskies have struggled with perimeter defense and this could cause some problems against the Sooners.
Prediction
It’s been a Jekyll and Hyde year for the Huskies. One game they look like they could win the championship again and another they look completely lost. I’m going with the Oklahoma Sooners to get the win in this one. Fears has been playing very well and his outside shot could give the Huskies some problems. I am a little worried about the rebounding but the Sooners have enough scoring to overcome a few second chance opportunities.
The eight versus nine matchups are always difficult to predict and the Huskies may get the benefit of the doubt from many brackets due to their history. However, this team is no where near the quality of last year. Head coach Dan Hurley has gone viral for his sideline antics, making this matchup one to watch if you like to see coaches melt down over bad calls. This will be one of the last first round matchups to be played, but promises to be one of the most thrilling.
