 Overview:
Quick, who has won more Big 12 games than any coach in the
conference's history? That would be none other than Kelvin
Sampson, who will also be leading Oklahoma to its 12th straight
postseason appearance under his watch. This has come despite
losing a few key players to transfer before the season started.
No other Big 12 had a wider rebounding margin than Oklahoma's
+9.6 mark. Sampson's steady coaching hand, plus the presence of
senior leaders like Terrell Everett and Kevin Bookout, make
Oklahoma a very interesting team to watch in this tournament.
Potential Difference Maker: Long range shooting can be a key
factor in tournament success, which is why Michael Neal becomes
a very important player in terms of Oklahoma's prospects. He
makes his threes at a better than 43% clip, which led the Big
12. On eleven different occasions this season, Neal drained four
or more threes.
On Offense:
High low motion trying to get the ball Gray and Bookout on the
block. Everett can create offense off of the dribble and Michael
Neal will drain the 3PT shot if given any space. Very good on
the offensive boards
On Defense: Tough, physical man to man defense that
controls the defensive backboards.
Strength: This team plays extremely hard. Gray and
Bookout are a lethal combination down low. Everett and Neal
create a dynamic element on the perimeter.
Weakness: Outside shooting beyond Michael Neal,
consistent play from bench and fifth starter (Godbold).
Key to Success: Pound the ball inside early making
defenses double and sag. Neal must get some open looks and
spread the defense.
How to Beat Them: Double down quickly on Gray and Bookout
and do not help off of Neal. Make the other guys beat you from
the outside. |
