This Big 12 matchup between Texas and Oklahoma State remained close for most of the first half, but the Longhorns closed the half strong to take a 38-27 lead. Early on, Oklahoma State was hot, especially from behind the arc. This kept guard Thomas Dziagwa busy, as he finished 7-11 from three-point range on the day. Luckily for Texas, they made the right adjustments, and went on a run to put themselves in the lead. Texas maintained this lead through the second half, but not before they let the Cowboys claw back within 4 points. Texas held steady and expanded the gap, finishing with a comfortable 69-57 win.
Oklahoma State has had a lot going on behind the scenes this season. Michael Weathers (averaged 9.2 PPG), Maurice Calloo (averaged 2.5 PPG) and Kentrevius Jones (averaged 1.3 PPG) were all dismissed from the team in mid-January. Since then, the team has a dismal record of 1-7. The Cowboys had some positives during the game on Saturday, but it was clear that they did not have the depth to compete with the Longhorns.
Analysis of Texas:
Shot Selection. – The Longhorns took much better shots against Oklahoma State. With a field goal percentage of 48.9%, Texas was more selective than they were against Kansas State, shooting 44.7% from the field in that game.
Overall Defense. – The Texas defense performed much better overall than they did against the Wildcats. The team played tighter defense as an adjustment to Oklahoma State’s success from three-point range, which enabled Texas to force Oklahoma State to move to inside shots, which Texas defended well. The defense forced Oklahoma State to a 37.7% field goal percentage, an improvement from the 54.9% field goal percentage they allowed against Kansas State.
Usage of Dylan Osetkowski. – Osetkowski was busy against Oklahoma State. He converted all three of his three-point shots, contributing to his 14 points on the day. With only 6 points from Jaxson Hayes and 7 points from Courtney Ramey, it was great to see Osetkowski picking up the slack. His 14 points were second to only Kerwin Roach II, who finished with 16 points.
Free-Throws. – Texas finally showed consistency from the free-throw line. Although a small aspect of the game, Texas went 16-18 from the line (88.9%), much better than their 69.9% free-throw percentage on the season. An improvement that is a positive for their mental preparedness and confidence moving forward.
One Point of Improvement:
Prevent Momentum Swings. – Texas was in control for most of the game, but they had a few falters when it came to controlling the momentum. The offense had 11 turnovers compared to the Cowboys’ 9, and they allowed Oklahoma State’s Dziagwa to get hot from three, which brought the team to within 4 points. A preventable situation that Texas can control moving forward.
