Oklahoma (14-7, 4-4) and Texas Tech (13-8, 4-4) battle in what feels like a must-win game for both squads. With each school projected inside the NCAA Tournament for the moment, each game from here on out is just as important as a First Round game at the Big Dance.
For Oklahoma to be the ones walking away with a win, here is what needs to happen.
SCORE IN THE PAINT
The Sooners have had a tough time scoring, especially on the road. For Oklahoma to get momentum and take the air out of the crowd early, they need to get to the basket. Settling for jump shots, no matter how good the look may be, should not be the main offensive objective. Getting to the rim and finishing at the basket needs to be Kruger’s point of emphasis in order to steal a win on the road.
USE DOOLITTLE
Going hand in hand with scoring in the paint is using Kristian Doolittle. Forcing contact on the low block and allowing Doolittle to make his own space will open up jump shots throughout the game. With Doolittle being quiet on offense lately, tonight seems as good a night as any to get him back into the flow of the offense.
FORCE TURNOVERS
The Sooners’ defense has been solid over the past month with only a few hiccups along the way. A big lacking stat for Oklahoma’s defense is takeaways. Much like their football counterparts, the Sooners have not forced enough turnovers to convert into extra opportunities for their offense. Jumping passing lanes and on-ball steals will help Oklahoma combat the sharpshooters of Texas Tech.
The Sooners and Red Raiders are set for an 8p.m. tip on ESPN/ESPN2. For more broadcast details, click here.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3]