OU Basketball: Oklahoma Playing With ‘Chip’ to Snap Sweet 16 Drought
As the Oklahoma Sooners men’s basketball team charges into the thick of their postseason run, there’s one thing that’s abundantly clear: they’re playing with a chip on their shoulder. After years of disappointment and a frustrating stretch without advancing past the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament, the Sooners are determined to break through and end their Sweet 16 drought.
Under the leadership of head coach Porter Moser, Oklahoma’s squad has embraced a new mindset this season—one that’s built on resilience, grit, and the unwavering desire to prove that they are capable of competing with the best in college basketball. With the 2024 NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Sooners have positioned themselves for a deep run, and they are more motivated than ever to snap a Sweet 16 drought that stretches back to 2009.
A Long Wait for the Sweet 16
Oklahoma’s drought of advancing to the Sweet 16 has lingered for over a decade. The last time the Sooners made it to the round of 16 was in 2009, when they were led by NBA star Blake Griffin. Since then, the program has experienced its fair share of highs and lows, but advancing deep into the NCAA Tournament has proven elusive.
For the Oklahoma basketball program, this extended period without a Sweet 16 appearance has become a point of frustration and motivation. Each year, the Sooners enter the tournament with high expectations but have consistently fallen short. Whether it’s been poor shooting in crucial moments, missed opportunities, or simply running into teams on hot streaks, the result has been the same: a first- or second-round exit.
In recent years, however, the team has seemed on the cusp of breaking through. Under former head coach Lon Kruger and now with Porter Moser at the helm, Oklahoma has continued to build a competitive squad capable of competing with the best programs in the country. But despite the improvements, the elusive Sweet 16 has remained out of reach.
Now, with a renewed sense of urgency and the experience to match, the Sooners are entering this year’s tournament with the mindset that the time is finally right to break their drought. This time, they are determined to play with the kind of hunger and drive that will push them past the first weekend and into uncharted territory.
Coach Porter Moser’s Vision
Since taking over as head coach in 2021, Porter Moser has instilled a sense of discipline, toughness, and resilience into the Oklahoma program. Moser, known for his successful run at Loyola Chicago, where he led the Ramblers to the Final Four in 2018, has made it his mission to return the Sooners to national prominence. His approach centers on defense-first principles, team chemistry, and mental toughness—traits that have already started to pay off.
This season, Moser’s emphasis on defense and defensive discipline has been a major factor in the Sooners’ success. Oklahoma has developed one of the most formidable defenses in the country, making life difficult for opposing teams on both ends of the floor. The Sooners’ ability to lock down their opponents and limit high-scoring teams has been one of the key factors in their ability to secure close wins throughout the season.
On the offensive end, Moser has encouraged a more balanced and efficient approach. With a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented young players, Oklahoma has found ways to put together an effective offensive scheme that doesn’t rely solely on one or two stars. This team-oriented approach has made the Sooners a difficult team to game-plan for and has contributed to their success throughout the season.
In speaking about the team’s mindset heading into the tournament, Moser has emphasized the importance of playing with a sense of urgency. “It’s time to break the drought,” Moser said after the Sooners secured their spot in this year’s NCAA Tournament. “Our guys have worked too hard to let this opportunity slip by. We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the mentality, and now it’s about executing when it matters most.”
The Key Players for Oklahoma
While Oklahoma’s success has been built on a team-first mentality, there are a few players who have stood out as crucial contributors throughout the season and will be vital for the Sooners in their NCAA Tournament run.
1. Grant Sherfield – The Playmaking Leader
Oklahoma’s senior point guard, Grant Sherfield, has been one of the standout players for the Sooners this season. A transfer from Nevada, Sherfield has brought a wealth of experience and poise to the Sooners’ backcourt. Averaging 15.7 points per game and 5.2 assists, Sherfield has been Oklahoma’s primary offensive engine, providing scoring and playmaking while also contributing defensively.
Sherfield’s ability to control the pace of the game and make clutch plays in high-pressure situations will be crucial if Oklahoma hopes to advance deep into the tournament. His leadership on the court and ability to step up when the team needs him most make him a key figure in Oklahoma’s Sweet 16 push.
2. Jalen Hill – The Defensive Anchor
Jalen Hill, a 6’6” forward, has been the defensive stalwart for Oklahoma all season. Averaging 8.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game, Hill has been a force on the glass and in the paint, helping to anchor the Sooners’ defense. His ability to guard multiple positions and protect the rim gives Oklahoma a defensive edge against opposing teams, especially when facing high-powered offenses in the tournament.
Hill’s toughness and tenacity will be critical in slowing down some of the most potent offensive players the Sooners will face in the tournament. If Hill can continue to assert himself defensively, Oklahoma will be well-positioned to make a deep run.
3. Bijan Cortes – The Emerging Star
Freshman Bijan Cortes has been one of the most exciting players for Oklahoma this season, providing a spark off the bench with his energy and scoring ability. Cortes has averaged 9.2 points per game and has shown a knack for hitting big shots when his team needs him most. His confidence and ability to play beyond his years have made him a key contributor to the Sooners’ success.
Cortes’ development as a go-to scorer and playmaker could be one of the X-factors for Oklahoma in the tournament. If the freshman can continue to perform at a high level, the Sooners will have even more depth and versatility in their attack.
The Road to Redemption
Oklahoma’s road to the Sweet 16 will not be easy. The NCAA Tournament is filled with top-tier teams that can strike at any moment, and the Sooners will face stiff competition from across the country. However, what separates this Oklahoma team from past iterations is their mindset. This team is hungry, and they have embraced the underdog mentality that has fueled many of the most successful tournament runs in history.
There’s no question that the Sooners have the talent and depth to compete with the best teams in the country. With Sherfield leading the charge, Hill anchoring the defense, and Cortes providing an extra spark, Oklahoma has all the pieces in place to make a deep run.
But beyond the X’s and O’s, it’s the intangible factor—the chip on their shoulder—that could push Oklahoma over the top. The Sooners are not just playing to break their Sweet 16 drought; they are playing to prove to themselves, their fans, and the college basketball world that they belong among the elite.
Looking Ahead
As Oklahoma enters the NCAA Tournament, the Sooners know that every game will be a battle. But with their renewed sense of purpose and a roster full of talent, they are ready to take on the challenge. The time has come for this program to snap its Sweet 16 drought, and this year’s team is determined to make history.
With Coach Moser’s leadership, a solid defensive foundation, and a roster full of players who are ready to leave it all on the court, the Sooners are poised for a deep run in the tournament. If they continue to play with the same intensity and resolve that has characterized their season, there’s no telling just how far they can go.
For the Oklahoma Sooners, it’s not just about making it to the Sweet 16; it’s about making a statement—and with this team, they’re ready to do just that.