Oklahoma (9-3) got a much-needed dominant win over Texas Rio Grande Valley (4-9), 91-72. The game was a final tune-up before Big 12 play begins on January 4.
DUNK-FEST
The Sooners were throwing them down early and often which was a big thanks to Kur Kuath who got the start in place of Kristian Doolittle who violated team rules. Kuath had 10 points at the half and was five of seven from the floor, including a beautiful backboard alley-oop from Austin Reaves.
REAVES ➡️ BACKBOARD ➡️ KUATH‼️ pic.twitter.com/ZnIyBSN0E6
— OUHoops (@ouhoops) December 31, 2019
“I heard him scream backboard,” Reaves said postgame. “If my big man’s going to run, I’m going to award him for it.”
Reaves was the main facilitator for big dunks with one for Kuath and another for Brady Manek.
Reaves with the behind-the-back pass to Manek for another one-handed slam. pic.twitter.com/ls6w9z1wZt
— OUHoops (@ouhoops) December 31, 2019
THE BASKETS DO NOT HAVE LIDS
After poor shooting performances for the majority of the first half of the season, Oklahoma came out hot against the Vaqueroes 61.8% in the first half and 50.8% for the game.
With three starters in double digits, the Sooners looked like they finally hit their scoring groove.
MUCH A DOO ABOUT NOTHING
Oklahoma looked to be more cohesive and played more fluidly without Doolittle in the lineup. Without their best player, the Sooners shared the ball more and played with a quicker tempo, running the floor against UTRGV constantly. Coach Kruger confirmed postgame that Doolittle will play Saturday against Kansas State.
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