Three keys for Oklahoma basketball against TCU

The final game of the regular season means it’s crunch time for everyone, but especially so for both Oklahoma (18-12, 8-9)…

The final game of the regular season means it’s crunch time for everyone, but especially so for both Oklahoma (18-12, 8-9) and TCU (16-14, 7-10).

A must-win for both squads, this matchup is important regarding NCAA Tournament implications. For the Sooners, a win in Ft. Worth today would cement themselves in the Big Dance. The Horned Frogs still have some work to do but can help their cause with a win against Oklahoma before heading to Kansas City next week for the Big 12 Tournament.

Here is what the Sooners need to do to ensure a happy trip home to Norman, Okla.

START HOT

It goes without saying, but Oklahoma is much better off if they get off to a hot start. Knocking shots down early and finding the rhythm of the offense in the first ten minutes of the game will be crucial in setting the tone against TCU.

shot selection

Going 2-20 from deep in a heartbreaking loss to Texas on Tuesday is not what the Sooners needed heading into March. Smarter shots and draining the shot clock to find those shots will allow Oklahoma to rest up to play their smothering defense while tiring out the Horned Frogs. Getting into the paint has been an issue but with post-season play looming, the Sooners cannot depend on their outside shooting.

FORGET ABOUT IT

Tuesday’s loss, as heartbreaking as it was for senior Kristian Doolittle, needs to be forgotten about. There is nothing the Sooners can do to change it, so they might as well move on as soon as possible. The first ten minutes against TCU should be a good barometer as to if Lon Kruger’s squad is still reeling from Tuesday’s game.

Oklahoma and TCU are set to tip-off at 4p.m. CT on ESPN. For more broadcast details, click here.

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