OU played hard and well against top-ranked and unbeaten Gonzaga as the final score of 87-71 doesn’t represent this was basically a 9-11 point spread for most of the last eight minutes of the game.
Considering Devion Harmon didn’t play and Brady Manek went 1-8 and scored an invisible total of three points–it’s impressive the other OU players kept this game close and entertaining to watch.
Austin Reaves was superb scoring 27 points on an 11-17 shooting game. His toughness and competiveness is never an issue. If Brady Manek had Austin’s snarl—the Sooners would possibly still be playing in this tournament. I hope Austin can find a niche for his game at the next level as his game in some regards reminds of the rookie Ty Jerome who’s trying to carve a role with the Thunder. It has been a pleasure watching Austin these past two years after he transferred to OU from Wichita State. He’s got that Tyler Herro smirk I just love in a player. Good luck, Austin.
Elijah Harkless played his ass off as he always does. Seven points, nine rebounds, and two assists coupled with his toughness and smarts all over the court. I love EJ’s game. Lon Kruger has a running mate for Devion Harmon next year which will make the Sooners interesting to watch. Shoot more next season, EJ.
Alondes Williams played at a high level in my view. He scored 15 points and was key in keeping the Sooners in the game. Alondes is a senior, but I would think since the NCAA isn’t counting this Covid year eligibilty wise…Alondes would be a classic example of a player who should come back to refine and improve his game. His game is one of the most athletic on the team and his own case of Covid was a genuine detriment to his season. Alondes…hope you come back. Your game has a high ceiling if you keep working. Love watching you play when your confidence is in place as it was today.
Jalen Hill played well at the small forward slot and scored 11 points. It was good to see Jalen play well in the two NCAA Tournament games because he’s going to be a huge part of the Sooners’ season next year. He’s smart, tough, competitive and a guy who should shoot more from the perimeter given the fact he should get Brady Manek minutes next season.
Kur Kuath played well. He gave the Sooners rim protection and helped keep OU in the game with his energy. I love watching Kur play because he has a boundless joy for playing the game. Kur is a senior and has said he’s moving on next year. I think this is a mistake personally because if he developed a shot he could be an interesting player. But I wish Kur the best because he did whatever he could this season to make the team competitive.
Moj Gibson only played 21 minutes in this game which I think was a bit of a mistake by Coach Kruger given Moj went 2-4 shooting the three ball in the first half. OU did not make a three in the second half and this was key. You gotta score the three ball to hang Gonzaga. Moj’s confidence seemed to slump down the stretch this season, but for most of the year he was a difference maker after transferring to OU from North Texas. I would think Moj being the third or fourth guard next year for Lon Kruger is a big part of the Sooners’ plans.
As far as Gonzaga…they have a nice team with Timme, Kispert, and Jalen Suggs. I’ve now seen OU play both Baylor and Gonzaga and I would say that could be a helluva game. I would give Gonzaga a slight edge.
Like most NCAA Tournaments there have been upsets galore in these first two rounds…but for most of this Covid ridden season we thought Gonzaga, Baylor, and Michigan were the top three teams…and you know what—those are those three teams standing along with thirteen others who are chasing the same dream.
As far as the Sooners—they finish at 16-11 and gave me as a fan some great fun this season. OU and Cade Cunningham filled a void for me because I don’t watch tanking teams game in and game out. It’s not legitimate competition. Pro wrestling has more integrity….seriously. Obviously…Adam Silver agrees with me because he added two play-in rounds this season because he’s tired of watching this bullshit in his own league.
Oral Roberts played OU this season and lost to the Sooners by a 79-65 count if my memory serves me right. Who would have thought they’d be the team from Oklahoma in the Sweet 16? I think I’ll follow Oral Roberts and see where that leads coming out of the Sweet Sixteen.
But here’s the thing, Oral Roberts has a point guard and a forward who can dominate the game…and that makes this an interesting proposition moving to the next round as sixteen teams are still chasing the same dream.
(8) Heartfelt postgame message for resilient Cinderella squad – YouTube