Oklahoma Sooners Keep NCAA Tournament Hopes Alive
The Oklahoma Sooners are still alive in the hunt for the NCAA Tournament after a thrilling victory over the Texas Longhorns, winning 88-85 on March 3, 2026, at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. This win marks a crucial moment for the Sooners, who have shown resilience in recent weeks, having won six of their last eight games following a challenging stretch where they lost nine straight.
Leading the charge for Oklahoma was Pack, who scored 23 points and made three 3-pointers, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Xzayvier Brown also contributed significantly with 21 points and two 3-pointers, while Tae Davis added 14 points and nine rebounds, rounding out a strong offensive effort from the team. Mohamed Wague chipped in with eight points and five rebounds, further solidifying the Sooners’ performance.
In this matchup, Oklahoma shot 44% from the field, compared to Texas’ 41%. This slight edge in shooting percentage proved pivotal in securing the victory. The Sooners’ ability to capitalize on their scoring opportunities was evident, as they managed to maintain their lead in a tightly contested game.
As the game unfolded, it became clear that this was a critical moment for Oklahoma. ESPN bracketology expert Joe Lunardi referred to the contest as the Sooners’ “last stand” if they wanted any shot at March Madness. The pressure was palpable, and the team’s determination to fight back was evident, as they have been battling with their backs against the wall for the past month.
With this victory, the Oklahoma Sooners improved their overall record to 17-14 and secured a No. 11 seed in the upcoming SEC Tournament. This positioning gives them a fighting chance to continue their journey in the NCAA Tournament, as they prepare to face No. 14-seeded South Carolina at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday inside Bridgestone Arena, which will be broadcast on SEC Network.
The Sooners’ recent performance has sparked optimism among fans and analysts alike, as they look to build on this momentum. Observers are keen to see how the team will perform in the SEC Tournament, where every game is crucial for their NCAA aspirations.
As the Sooners gear up for their next challenge, the excitement surrounding Texas basketball continues to grow, with fans eager to see how both Oklahoma and Texas will navigate the remainder of the season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the implications of this game for the Longhorns, who will need to regroup and reassess their strategy moving forward.