The stage is set for a thrilling matchup as the No. 4 Texas Longhorns (20-2, 5-2) prepare to host the No. 10 Oklahoma Sooners (17-4, 5-3) this Saturday in what will be the 70th edition of the Red River Rivalry. With the added excitement of College GameDay coming to Austin, basketball fans are eagerly anticipating this clash between two storied programs. Historically, Texas holds an advantage over Oklahoma with a 40-29 record in their all-time series.
While Oklahoma’s offensive firepower often garners attention, it is their tenacious defense that has been instrumental in their success this season. The Sooners lead the nation with an impressive opponent field goal percentage of 32.4 percent and rank sixth in defensive rating by allowing just 78.6 points per 100 possessions. They excel at limiting opponents, forcing teams to score an average of 12 points less than their typical output. Oklahoma’s defense is characterized by aggressive pressure, averaging nearly 11 steals per game and ranking 14th in the nation with 5.8 blocks per game.
Oklahoma’s head coach, Jennie Baranczyk, is in her fifth season and faces Texas with a 4-3 record against them. Her team features standout performances from center Reagan Beers, who averages 16.3 points and 10.7 rebounds per game, boasting 15 double-doubles this season. Freshman sensation Aaliyah Chaves leads the Sooners with an average of 18.9 points per game, contributing significantly with 90 assists and 33 steals. Other key players like forward Sahara Williams and guards Payton Verhulst and Zya Vann add depth and scoring, making Oklahoma a formidable opponent.
On the flip side, Texas enters the game having played nine ranked opponents this season and holding a commendable 6-2 record against such competition. Their victories include impressive wins over top-ranked teams like No. 2 UCLA and No. 3 South Carolina. Junior Madison Booker leads the Longhorns with an average of 19.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, guard Rori Harmon has proven to be an effective playmaker, tallying 152 assists while maintaining a low turnover rate.
The Longhorns boast a balanced scoring attack with six players averaging at least nine points per game, including four players in double figures. Their depth is further highlighted by a bench that contributes an average of 29.4 points, supported by the steady presence of center Kyla Oldacre and sophomore Justice Carlton.
With the anticipation building, fans can look forward to this exciting matchup set to tip off at 2 p.m. Central time at the Moody Center, broadcast live on ABC. The fierce rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma promises to deliver a captivating game filled with intensity and skill.