Oklahoma (11-3, 0-2) got their first win in Austin, TX., since 2015 over Texas (10-4, 0-2) Wednesday night. Road wins in the Big 12 are a rarity for the Sooners as tonight’s win is just the fifth over the past four seasons. Not only do the Sooners head home with a win, but a confirmed sense of confidence.
DE’VION HARMON, WELCOME TO THE SHOW
Freshman guard, De’Vion Harmon has not performed nearly to his potential so far this season. He was removed from the starting lineup four games ago but has since blossomed into a fantastic spark off the bench for Lon Kruger’s team. His talents were on full display against the Longhorns as he came out after halftime locking down his assignments defensively, forcing turnovers and getting Oklahoma into transition on multiple possessions. Harmon finished the game with nine points (all of which came in the second half), three rebounds, an assist and three of the Sooners’ seven steals.
JAMAL BIENIEMY WOKE UP
After a promising freshman season, Jamal Bieniemy began the 2019-20 season in a rut. That changed Wednesday night. Bieniemy, much like Harmon, was all over the court, harassing Longhorns from baseline to baseline in his 38 minutes. Not only was his defensive prowess on display but so was his shooting abilities. He finished the game with 11 points, trailing just Kristian Doolittle who had 22. Bieniemy was effective with his shots, knocking down four of six from the floor while also leading the team in assists with four.
KRISTIAN DOOLITTLE IS A NIGHTMARE
The 2018-19 Big 12 most improved player showed that he is a walking mismatch, once again. His team-leading 22 points on eight of 16 shooting included two three-pointers that kept the Texas defense stretched out all night. Doolittle also led the team in rebounds with eight.
OKLAHOMA CAN PLAY DEFENSE
Alex Grinch eat your heart out. The Sooners put a stranglehold on the Longhorns offense, allowing them to shoot just 38% from the field and 28% from deep. not only was Oklahoma forcing tough shots but they were in Texas’ back pocket for all 40 minutes, forcing 12 turnovers.
The Sooners are back in action on Saturday as they face off against Iowa State on the road. The game can be seen on ESPN2 at 7p.m. CT.
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