The Oklahoma Sooners are set to host the No. 15 Missouri Tigers on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Oklahoma.
This matchup is pivotal for the Sooners as they aim to rejuvenate their season against a formidable opponent.
Season Overview
The Missouri Tigers have showcased a remarkable turnaround this season. After enduring an 0-18 record in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play last year, they currently stand at 21-8 overall and 10-6 in the SEC.
This resurgence has positioned them as strong contenders for an NCAA Tournament berth.
In contrast, the Oklahoma Sooners have faced challenges, holding a 17-12 overall record and 4-12 in the SEC. Despite their struggles, the Sooners remain on the NCAA Tournament bubble, making their upcoming games crucial for postseason aspirations.
Recent Performances
The Tigers recently suffered a 97-93 overtime loss to Vanderbilt. Caleb Grill, Missouri’s leading scorer with an average of 14.3 points per game, delivered an impressive 28-point performance in that contest.
The Sooners, meanwhile, endured an 87-84 defeat at Ole Miss. Freshman guard Dayton Forsythe emerged as a standout, achieving a career-high 25 points. This marked the second consecutive narrow loss for Oklahoma, following a close game against Kentucky.
Key Players to Watch
- Oklahoma Sooners:
- Jalon Moore: Averaging 16.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, Moore is pivotal to the Sooners’ offense.
- Jeremiah Fears: The freshman guard contributes 15.9 points and 4.1 assists per game, showcasing significant potential.
- Missouri Tigers:
- Caleb Grill: Leading the team with 14.3 points per game, Grill’s offensive prowess is a significant asset.
- Mark Mitchell: Averaging 13.9 points per game, Mitchell adds depth to Missouri’s scoring options.
Statistical Comparison
A head-to-head statistical analysis reveals:
| Statistic | Oklahoma Sooners | Missouri Tigers |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 78.1 | 84.6 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 47.1% | 48.9% |
| Three-Point Percentage | 38.4% | 37.6% |
| Free Throw Percentage | 79.1% | 72.9% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 32.3 | 34.2 |
| Turnovers Forced Per Game | 12.9 | 14.5 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 74.3 | 71.8 |
Previous Encounter
The teams last met on February 12, 2025, where Missouri secured an 82-58 victory. Oklahoma struggled offensively, recording season lows in both field goal and three-point percentages.
Betting Odds
As of March 4, 2025, Fan Duel Sportsbook lists Missouri as a 4.5-point favorite with an over/under of 161.5 points. The moneyline odds are -178 for Missouri and +146 for Oklahoma.
Game Significance
For Oklahoma, this game is critical. With eight of their SEC losses against ranked teams, securing a win against Missouri could bolster their NCAA Tournament prospects.
Conversely, Missouri aims to solidify its seeding and momentum as the postseason approaches
The upcoming clash between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Missouri Tigers is more than just a regular-season game; it’s a battle of redemption and validation.
Oklahoma seeks to overturn its recent misfortunes, while Missouri aims to continue its impressive resurgence. Fans can anticipate a high-stakes, competitive matchup that could significantly influence both teams’ postseason trajectories.