OU Basketball Rolls Past Lindenwood In Opener As Jeremiah Fears Shines
The No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners kicked off their 2023-24 season with a dominant 91-80 victory over the Lindenwood Lions in an exhibition match at the Lloyd Noble Center.
Oklahoma's star freshman, Jeremiah Fears, had a sensational debut, leading all scorers with 28 points on 9-of-15 shooting, while also grabbing 6 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists.
From the opening tip, Oklahoma asserted their presence on both ends of the court. Their defense forced turnovers, leading to easy transition baskets, while their offense moved the ball smoothly, finding open looks for shooters.
The Sooners' size and athleticism proved too much for Lindenwood to handle, as they outrebounded the Lions 45-29 and blocked 6 shots.
Jeremiah Fears showcased his immense talent in his first college game. The 6'7" forward displayed a versatile skill set, knocking down shots from deep, attacking the rim with authority, and making smart passes to his teammates.
Fears' performance was a testament to his hard work and dedication during the offseason. He showcased his ability to create his own shot, get to the foul line, and play with poise in key moments.
While Jeremiah Fears led the scoring, several other Sooners made significant contributions.
- Tanner Groves had 16 points and 6 rebounds.
- Grant Sherfield added 15 points and 5 assists.
- Jalen Hill chipped in with 11 points and 5 rebounds.
Despite the impressive victory, there were areas where the Sooners can improve.
- Turnovers: Oklahoma committed 14 turnovers, which gave Lindenwood some extra possessions.
- Free Throw Shooting: The Sooners shot just 63% from the free throw line, leaving points on the table.
The Oklahoma Sooners made a strong statement in their season opener, showcasing their potential as a contender in the Big 12 and nationally.
The emergence of Jeremiah Fears as a potential All-American is a major boost for the Sooners' hopes of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With a talented supporting cast and a solid foundation in place, Oklahoma has the potential to be a force to be reckoned with this season.