Oklahoma Enters the SEC with Momentum, Unbeaten Streak, and High Hopes

NORMAN — The dawn of a new year also marks the beginning of a new chapter for Oklahoma basketball. Transitioning to the SEC, the Sooners aim to carry the momentum from an unblemished 2024 season into the challenges that lie ahead.

With a perfect 13-0 record, Oklahoma (OU) stands among an elite trio of unbeaten Division I college basketball teams, sharing the spotlight with No. 1 Tennessee and No. 6 Florida. Ranked No. 12 nationally, the Sooners are set to test their mettle in their first-ever SEC conference game against the formidable No. 5 Alabama on Saturday in Tuscaloosa.

“It’s a huge opportunity for us, going up against the best of the best,” said OU head coach Porter Moser. “The SEC is full of high Quad 1 games, and you have to bring your A-game every night. This conference requires mental toughness and resilience to navigate the challenges ahead.”

Alabama: A Formidable SEC Welcome

The Crimson Tide, boasting an 11-2 record, present one of the toughest challenges OU could face as it enters the SEC. Alabama’s non-conference campaign featured victories over powerhouses like Illinois, Houston, North Carolina, and McNeese State. Their only setbacks were narrow defeats to Purdue and Oregon.

Leading Alabama’s charge are Mark Sears and Grant Nelson, who played pivotal roles in propelling the Crimson Tide to their inaugural Final Four appearance in 2024. Both players have returned stronger this season, cementing Alabama’s status as a title contender.

Sears, a senior point guard, is widely regarded as one of the best in college basketball. Averaging 18 points and four assists per game, his experience and skill set make him a significant threat. “He’s a seasoned veteran,” Moser said. “He’s been there, done that, and they play at a blistering pace with him at the helm.”

Nelson, a versatile 6-foot-11 forward, is equally impactful. The North Dakota native is averaging 13.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. Alongside him, Alabama’s frontcourt features Mouhamed Dioubate and Jarin Stevenson, two other 6-foot-11 standouts who combine for over nine rebounds per game. Collectively, Alabama averages an imposing 45.1 rebounds per game, underscoring their dominance on the boards.

Preparing for Alabama’s Size and Athleticism

The Sooners will need to draw on their previous experience against sizable opponents, such as their narrow 87-86 victory over Michigan earlier this season. In that contest, Oklahoma faced a Wolverines squad with two seven-footers in the starting lineup, though they struggled in the paint, being outscored 50-28.

“Alabama has incredible length and athleticism,” Moser noted. “Their ability to get to the rim and dominate the boards is second to none. For us, rebounding and limiting their opportunities at the rim will be crucial. They excel at drawing fouls and converting, so our defensive discipline will be tested.”

Learning from Past Struggles

Last season, Oklahoma’s promising start was derailed during conference play. The Sooners went 13-1 in non-conference games but stumbled to an 8-10 record in their final Big 12 campaign. Missing out on the NCAA Tournament was a hard pill to swallow, but it’s a lesson this year’s squad has taken to heart.

Senior forward Jalon Moore believes the team’s resilience will be key in avoiding a repeat of last year’s disappointment. “We’ve shown we can take punches and bounce back,” Moore said. “Some games, we may start slow, but we’ve proven we can rally and find ways to win.”

Fifth-year forward Sam Godwin echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s mental toughness. “This group has grit,” Godwin said. “No matter what happens, we keep fighting. That resilience is a defining trait for us, and it’s something we take pride in as a team.”

Aiming to Exceed Expectations

Despite their unbeaten record, the Sooners were ranked 15th out of 16 teams in the SEC preseason poll. This perceived slight has become a source of motivation for the players as they enter the latter half of the season.

“People underestimated us,” Godwin said. “They probably thought we’d be the easy game on everyone’s schedule. But now, it’s clear we’re one of the better teams in the conference. There’s no room for complacency, though. In the SEC, every game demands full focus and effort.”

Keys to Success Against Alabama

To upset Alabama, Oklahoma will need a complete team effort, beginning with solid rebounding and perimeter defense. The Sooners’ ability to handle Alabama’s pace and counter their size advantage will also play a significant role. Players like Milos Uzan and John Hugley IV, who have shown consistent improvement throughout the season, must rise to the occasion.

Moser emphasized the importance of playing disciplined basketball. “Every possession matters,” he said. “We have to stay composed, execute our game plan, and not get rattled by the environment or the moment.”

The Road Ahead

Saturday’s matchup is more than just a game; it’s a litmus test for where the Sooners stand in their new conference. A win would cement their status as legitimate contenders in the SEC and bolster their confidence as they navigate the rigorous conference slate.

The Sooners are not only playing for a strong start in the SEC but also for a chance to rewrite their narrative. They aim to prove that last year’s midseason collapse was an anomaly and that this year’s team has the resolve to compete at the highest level.

As the Sooners prepare for their 5 p.m. tipoff against Alabama, one thing is clear: they’re embracing the challenge of a new conference with open arms and a determined mindset.

“Every game is an opportunity,” Moser said. “In this league, you’re going to face the best teams and players night in and night out. We’re ready to rise to the occasion and show what we’re capable of.”

Looking Forward

Regardless of the outcome on Saturday, the Sooners are determined to make a statement in their inaugural SEC season. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent, Oklahoma has the tools to navigate the challenges ahead and establish itself as a force to be reckoned with.

For fans and players alike, the new era of SEC play represents a fresh start and a chance to showcase the growth and potential of this Oklahoma team. With every game, the Sooners will look to prove they belong among the best, embodying the resilience and determination that have defined their season thus far.

The Sooners’ journey is just beginning, but their unwavering belief in their capabilities ensures that they’ll be a team to watch as the season unfolds.