Sunday's performance by the men's basketball was what Sooner fans were hoping not to see this season as Oklahoma struggled to put away Central Missouri. OU trailed 26-22 at the half but found some defensive intensity in the second half to get the 74-69 win.
The main problem for the Sooners was the 20 turnovers. OU will lose to the majority of the teams on their regular season schedule turning the ball over that many times. Honestly that was one of my main concerns coming into this season and is why I was pleasantly surprised when the Sooners only turned the ball over six times in the opener.
However, there were a few good things to take away from the win as well.
* OU shot 90% from the free throw line.
* Freshmen were impressive again. Tony Crocker scored 14 points and Keith Clark tied for a team high with 18.
* The Sooners snagged 48 rebounds.
* Nate Carter showed he is healthy and will provide a spark off the bench. Carter scored 18 points in grabbed 10 rebounds in 25 minutes of playing time.
* The Sooners had two players record double-doubles. In addition to Carter Longar Longar recorded 10 points and 13 rebounds.
The season tips off for real Friday night when the Sooners host Norfolk State.