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The length of the Texas Longhorns showed up tonight in full force collecting 13 blocks on the night. With the effort, the Oklahoma Sooners struggled to score in the paint. UT's star, Myles Turner, continues to tear through the rest of the competition, this time coming off the bench while still recording a double double (17 points, 10 rebounds). Unable to force things inside, Buddy Hield and the rest of the gang relied on points off turnovers to secure a 71-69 win.
Three Takeaways
Oklahoma Finally Showed The Will To Win
In their previous six match-ups resulting a single digit decision, the Sooners managed to tally a single win. However, tonight showed a different side of a team that continues to hit their stride. After shooting just 36.1% from the floor, OU could have easily stepped back to fire up a few desperation three pointers. The idea becomes even more enticing knowing that no one could penetrate into the lane. Instead fans witnessed a team keep their composure while letting experience guide them to victory. This could be the sole reason Oklahoma earns their first post season win under Lon Kruger.
The Bench Finally Begins To Produce
Frank Booker came alive against Iowa State and it appears to have inspired at least one other player...Dinjiyl Walker. Continuing to ride a bit of the streak, Booker came through with 10 points of his while Walker added another 10. There could not have been a better time for these two to find their confidence as Hield and Isaiah Cousins struggled all night long. Needless to say, Kruger challenged the bench to earn the right to stay on the floor. Can these two keep the momentum building into the post season?
Jordan Woodard Is An Absolute Magician
There's no denying that Woodard may be one of the best at finishing at the rim after contact. Let me explain this one in video form...
Holy Jordan Woodard, Batman! https://t.co/3u9mCMCA0F
— CC Machine (@CCMachine) February 18, 2015