Oklahoma Sooners vs Texas Longhorns Picks and Predictions January 15th 2025

Hoping for more success in SEC play, Oklahoma awaits Texas

Longtime rivals Oklahoma and Texas are set to clash in their first Southeastern Conference (SEC) showdown on Wednesday night in Norman, Okla., both teams desperate to secure their first conference win.

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The Challenge of Transitioning to the SEC

The move from the Big 12 to the SEC has been a steep uphill battle for both programs. Despite dominant performances during nonconference play, neither team has managed a victory in their first three SEC games.

• Oklahoma Sooners (13-3, 0-3 SEC): After a strong start to the season, the Sooners have stumbled in SEC play, most recently losing 72-62 to Georgia. This defeat dropped them out of the AP Top 25 rankings, a blow to their morale as they seek to prove themselves in their new conference.
• Texas Longhorns (11-5, 0-3 SEC): Texas’ struggles mirror Oklahoma’s, as they also sit winless in SEC competition. Their latest loss was a close 74-70 game against the top-ranked Tennessee Volunteers, highlighting both their potential and areas of weakness.

Key Players to Watch

Oklahoma Sooners

• Jalon Moore: As the team’s leading scorer, averaging 17.4 points per game, Moore has been a reliable offensive force. Against Georgia, he led the Sooners with 17 points and nine rebounds. His ability to maintain consistency will be crucial as Oklahoma aims to secure a much-needed victory.
• Jeremiah Fears: A talented freshman and the team’s second-leading scorer (16.6 PPG), Fears struggled mightily against Georgia, scoring just two points on 1-of-11 shooting. Coach Porter Moser attributes this to the pressure of playing in a highly competitive league at such a young age.

“He wants to do so well right now, and he’s kind of going through it. Nobody is taking it harder than him,” Moser remarked. “But he has to remember he should be a senior in high school. He’s getting thrown into the No. 1 historic basketball league in the country.”

Texas Longhorns

• Tre Johnson: The freshman sensation has been the Longhorns’ standout performer, averaging 18.9 points per game. Johnson dropped 26 points against Tennessee, marking his fifth 20+ point game this season. However, coach Rodney Terry is focused on developing Johnson’s defensive skills.

“At Texas, you gotta play on both ends of the floor,” Terry explained. “You gotta guard really hard and try to be an offensive player as well. He’s gonna be better for that moving forward.”

Coaching Perspectives and Adjustments

Both teams are led by experienced coaches working to navigate the challenges of SEC competition while developing young talent.

• Porter Moser (Oklahoma): Known for his emphasis on player development, Moser’s focus is on helping young players like Jeremiah Fears adapt to the intense SEC environment.
• Rodney Terry (Texas): Terry has adopted a holistic approach, ensuring his team excels on both ends of the court. His commitment to cultivating a well-rounded game plan is evident in his comments on Tre Johnson’s growth.

A Rivalry Renewed in New Territory

The Oklahoma-Texas rivalry is one of the most storied in college sports, and their transition to the SEC adds an exciting new chapter. This matchup carries not just the weight of tradition but also the pressure to deliver a breakthrough performance in a grueling conference.

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Keys to Victory

• Oklahoma: For the Sooners, supporting Jalon Moore with stronger contributions from players like Fears is essential. Defense will also play a critical role in containing Texas’ dynamic offense.
• Texas: The Longhorns need to capitalize on Tre Johnson’s scoring prowess while tightening their defensive schemes. Contributions from secondary players could tip the scales in their favor.

Broader Implications in the SEC Landscape

The SEC is renowned for its competitiveness, with programs like Tennessee and Alabama setting a high standard. For Oklahoma and Texas, this game is not just about a win but about proving they can compete at the SEC level.

Prediction and What’s at Stake

With both teams winless in conference play, the stakes are incredibly high. This game is a potential turning point for the winner, offering a chance to build momentum and confidence for the remainder of the season.

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Conclusion

The Oklahoma-Texas rivalry has always delivered thrilling matchups, and their first meeting in the SEC promises to be no different. Both teams have the talent and coaching to succeed, but only one will emerge victorious on Wednesday night. For fans, it’s a game not to be missed—a battle not just for pride but for a foothold in the toughest basketball conference in the nation.