Oklahoma and UConn meet in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in the West Region. The game will take place on Friday night in Raleigh, North Carolina. Oklahoma enters as the No. 9 seed with a 20-13 record, while UConn is the No. 8 seed with a 23-10 mark.
UConn is seeking a third straight national title, while Oklahoma is back in the tournament for the first time since 2021. The winner will advance to face either No. 1 seed Florida or No. 16 seed Norfolk State in the second round. This is the first meeting between the teams since 2004 when Oklahoma won three of four games in a home-and-home series.
Sooners Preview – Seeking Tournament Success
Oklahoma started the season strong, winning its first 13 games, including victories over Arizona, Louisville, and Michigan. The Sooners struggled in SEC play but have found form late in the season. They enter this game after a tough 85-84 loss to Kentucky in the SEC Tournament.
Freshman guard Jeremiah Fears has been a key contributor, averaging 22.6 points per game over the last eight contests. Forward Jalen Moore has also been consistent, scoring in double figures in 29 games this season. The Sooners rely on these two players for much of their offense.
Oklahoma’s defense has been inconsistent, allowing opponents to score freely in several games this year. They will need improved defensive efforts to slow down UConn’s balanced attack. Oklahoma’s ability to shoot from outside will be a factor as they aim to keep pace with the Huskies.
Huskies Preview – Staying Focused in March
UConn has been strong in postseason play under coach Danny Hurley. The Huskies are 14-4 in NCAA Tournament games since Hurley arrived. Despite a few late-season struggles, UConn put together a five-game winning streak to end the regular season.
Solo Ball leads the team with 14.6 points per game, while Liam McNeeley and Alex Karaban both average over 14 points. The Huskies have multiple scoring options, which has helped them maintain steady offensive production. UConn has not had a 20-point scorer in its last three games, highlighting their balanced approach.
UConn’s defense has been reliable this season, often holding opponents below their scoring average. The Huskies will need to maintain strong perimeter defense to limit Oklahoma’s top shooters. They have experience on their side, with several players having NCAA Tournament success in past seasons.
Betting Prediction
The spread favors UConn slightly, with the Huskies expected to win by a few points. Oklahoma has covered the spread in seven straight games, making them an appealing underdog. The Sooners have also hit the game total over in 15 of their last 23 contests.
UConn’s strong defensive play may limit Oklahoma’s top scorers, especially if Jeremiah Fears struggles under pressure. Expect a close game with UConn’s depth, which will give them the edge late. The Huskies should win and narrowly cover the spread.
Pick: UConn -3
Expect the back-to-back national champions to come away with a win here. This should be a fun game to watch!
